DURBAN - The struggles of Baroka FC and Highlands Park to stay afloat in the top-flight are examples of how tough it is for promoted clubs to retain their status.
It’s a similar story in the National First Division (NFD) where newcomers Magesi FC prop up the standings, and fellow rookies Real Kings fare slightly better in 12th spot with a nine-point buffer.
Like Baroka, Durban newbies Kings stuck with the promotion squad, save for adding a few youngsters with pro experience. Remaining loyal to players who earned them professional status was the main reason.
However, at mid-season the club took a tough decision to evaluate their personnel, and after a win and a draw in their last two outings against former PSL clubs Jomo Cosmos and AmaZulu respectively, a strengthened Kings outfit occupy a healthier log position.
Cutting the emotional attachment with players who won them promotion and taking a business decision to let go of some of them in favour of experienced personnel appears to be paying off.
Journeyman striker Siphesihle Nzimande scored the winner against Cosmos, and bagged the opener and created the second in the draw against AmaZulu. Kings led twice away to AmaZulu last weekend when Thobani Kunene scored the other goal. It was his first goal since rejoining the side on loan from Platinum Stars.
With PSL-experienced defenders Reabetsoe Rakoti and Siyabonga Shoyisa settling in, coach Simo Dladla expects Kings to tighten up.
“I’m happy we’re starting to gel after so many changes. The worries of relegation are still there. We’re not yet out of it because the points difference with the teams below us is not great.
“Overall we’re stronger than in the first round. Only lack of discipline and communication cost us against AmaZulu. But I’m happy we’re scoring again, and that Thobani got off the mark,” said Dladla.
It helps to have a supportive management. Kings owner, local businessman Bongani Ngidi, was upbeat about the club’s survival.
“To date what we aimed for, to stay in the league, I’m optimistic is achievable. I don’t doubt the ability of the technical team or the squad. It’s our first season and it’s critically important to give the youngsters and the coach an opportunity at this level. We have a two-year plan - this year is a learning curve in the NFD,” said Ngidi.