Thinasonke Mbuli believes there’s room for improvement despite first win

This is UWC’s first win and first home game in the 2025 Hollywoodbets Super league campaign, after defeats to Mamelodi Sundowns and the University Fort Hare.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mbuli adds she is disheartened that it only took the second half for the team to be in full control of the match.

“We honestly didn’t start well. First half we were not in control of the game, and we created few chances but I wasn’t happy with how we played the first half. Yes we went to half time leading 1-0 but we had to make a few changes, and that helped us. The second half was much better, we were better on the ball and in total control. What didn’t help us as well was the weather, it was very windy,’’ said Mbuli.

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Mbuli shares lessons from their two opening fixtures, where they lost 1-0 to Sundowns, followed by another 1-0 defeat to the University of Fort Hare.

“We are trying to change how we normally play in terms of the structure and set up. We have a lot of new players, we must also help them to adjust. So we are forced to be a little bit patient with them, and trust that what we are doing will help us get the results,’’ added Mbuli.

UWC parted ways with five key players last season, including Bongeka Gamede and Amogelang Motau. Mbuli says they will need time to see through a working system regarding their new combinations.

“We signed players that are capable enough to help us get results, we have new players, new combinations so it will take some time - hence I’m saying we must be patient with them,’’ she expressed.

Next stop for the students is against TUT next Saturday in Tshwane. Mbuli shares expectations.

“They started well and got a few good results. We will analyse them, plan and prepare for them. We hope for good results away from home,’’ she concluded.