Zwane praises AmaZulu resilience after hard-fought Siwelele win

Zwane was speaking after Usuthu claimed a 2–0 victory at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, a result that restored confidence following their 1–0 defeat to Polokwane City before the November FIFA international break.

Athini Maqokolo sealed the win with a second-half brace, taking AmaZulu’s tally to three league victories in their last four outings.

Zwane says he expected they would need to dig deep.

"They came here with one thing in mind, which was to play, and not just sit back like last time. Today we played against a team that took the game to us, whereas previously we played against a team that waited for us.

"I must give credit to the players for the great shift and the tactical discipline they showed."

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Maqokolo’s tally now rises to three goals in all competitions after he opened his account in the 3–2 Carling Knockout quarter-final loss to Magesi FC.

The right winger, who joined AmaZulu in September after spells at JDR Stars and FC Ravens, has quickly adapted to top-flight demands.

Zwane says the youngsters in the squad are adjusting well.

"As you know, we have refreshed the squad. We just need to strike a balance because some of the youngsters are trying to get themselves to the level of others who are doing well. 

"You expect them to make mistakes, but it's a way for them to learn and grow. What's key here, is that we collect maximum points to boost the confidence in the squad."

This was AmaZulu’s third win in four league matches, lifting them to fifth place on the DStv Premiership table with 21 points from 12 games.

But despite their strong push towards the top four, the team has been hampered by injuries to experienced players, including Keagan Allan and Bongani Zungu.

Their absence has forced Zwane to lean more heavily on younger squad members, a challenge he believes is speeding up their development.

Zwane, who has enjoyed a strong record in KwaZulu-Natal derbies since arriving at the club, now prepares for two more crucial provincial clashes.

AmaZulu visit Richards Bay on Friday, 28 November, before travelling to face Golden Arrows on 3 December.

‘10111’ says he prefers not to dwell on past results, focusing instead on winning on the day.