UWC goalkeeper Siphesihle Dlamini surprised by Safja Awards nomination

This after Saftja released a list of their 2024 awards nomination, where Dlamini is nominated alongside former teammate Amogelang Motau, Ayesha Moosa, Mamelodi Sundown’s Lebogang Ramalepe and Boitumelo Rabale.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Dlamini adds that she is grateful that her hard work is being recognised and it is also starting to pay off.

“To be honest with my nomination, it was just unexpected. It shows that last season I played so well. This is for my team. I would say it was a surprise. I was not even aware, it was my teammate who showed me the list,’’ said Dlamini.

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Dlamini was also nominated last year for the Hollywoodbets Super League goalkeeper of the season which she lost at the hands of Matshidiso Masebe of UJ ladies. She says last season was very crucial to launch herself to becoming UWC’s first choice goalkeeper.

“So last season I had to step up, because I have been playing as a second goalkeeper for a long time. I had to show that I can get in goals and be a trusted goalkeeper. So it was a good season for me,’’ added Dlamini.

The 23-year-old joined UWC in 2022, and says she wants to work hard to help the team to at least secure a top five spot in this year’s edition.

“It is quite challenging this season for us, but we are working hard and pushing ourselves. Hopefully we can secure a spot in the top five,’’ said Dlamini.

UWC is faced with a very slow start into the current campaign, with four wins in 14 outings. Dlamini says she hopes for a better outcome at the end of the season.

“As UWC I don’t think we are in a good state, but we continue to fight and make sure that we give it our all on the pitch. We are now trying to take each game at the time, hoping to give positive results,’’ she expressed.