Makhoyes men break the curse to close in on PSL Promotion

The Mswenko Boys had failed to defeat Stars in their last five encounters, but the breakthrough came at a crucial time at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga. Orlando Pirates loanee Siyabulela Mabele netted the match-winner in the 80th minute, his deflected strike sending Orbit College to the top of the playoff mini-league standings. Makhoye says it was a special result for the team.

 "This victory is vital for our promotion hopes, especially after sharing the spoils in each of our last two matches," said the ambitious coach. 

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Orbit were forced into an early substitution when Mahluri Ubisi limped off in the 20th minute, prompting the introduction of Tshepo Matsemele.

Ironically, the change proved to be a blessing in disguise. Makhoye believes Matsemele’s performance was key to their success.

"The injury did not affect us as much, despite our expectations. Shortly after that, we actually started to take control of the midfield which helped us win this playoff," explained Makhoye. 

Orbit College were considered early promotion contenders last term before a slump in the second round saw them drop to ninth.

However, they bounced back to finish second behind Durban City this season, securing a place in the playoffs.

Makhoye’s side now host Cape Town City on Wednesday in a potential decider; victory would secure Orbit College a historic place in the Betway Premiership.

No club from the North West Province currently competes in the Premier Soccer League's top flight. The last team to do so was Platinum Stars, but they were bought out in 2018 and rebranded as Cape Umoya United, relocating to Cape Town.

Makhoye says it has always been his dream to bring top-flight football back to the province, and Orbit’s current campaign may be the start of that revival…