FARPost writer Otis Ntshangase looks at the top five DStv Premiership signings who impressed for their clubs in the debut season.
The 2022/23 DStv Premiership season came to an end on Saturday, 27 May 2023, after the final of the Nedbank Cup between Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United.
Here are five players Ntshangase believes excelled for their clubs in the just-ended season.
RONWEN WILLIAMS
The Bafana Bafana international had a great season with Sundowns. Upon arrival at Chloorkop, the coaches preferred him as the main goalkeeper to Denis Onyango, Kennedy Mweene and Reyaad Pieterse.
In addition, Williams was impressive in between the sticks. He played 38 matches in all competitions. He guided the Tshwane giants to their sixth league title in a row and a CAF Champions League semi-final finish.
For his heroics, Williams was rewarded with a golden glove award. The 31-year-old broke former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs’ 17 clean sheets in a season reaching 18.
NKOSINATHI SIBISI
The centre-back settled very well at the Soweto giants’ backline establishing a place for himself. The former Golden Arrows captain helped the Sea Robbers win the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.
The 27-year-old played 34 matches in all competitions, scored one goal and provided two assists.
IQRAAM RAYNERS
Undoubtedly, the Stellenbosch FC ace was one of the best players in the second half of the season. He rejoined Stellies in January 2023 from SuperSport United.
Rayners found the back of the net 15 times and provided three assists from 14 matches. For his red-hot form in front of goal, he scooped back-to-back DStv Premiership Player of the Month Awards for February/March and April.
DANIEL CARDOSO
Sekhukhune United made one of their best signings with Cardoso. The defender joined the team at the beginning of the season after Kaizer Chiefs released him.
The 34-year-old has been the captain for a larger part of the season after skipper Linda Mntambo’s injury. He played 34 matches in all competitions and scored one goal.
With his leadership qualities on the pitch, he led Babina Noko to a top-eight finish and the Nedbank Cup final. Sekhukhune lost 2-1 to Pirates in the final.
RANGA CHIVAVIRO
Despite Marumo Gallants’ bad season and being relegated to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, Chivaviro was their top player. However, he couldn’t save the team. He joined Gallants ahead of the just-ended season from Venda Football Academy.
Chivaviro was impressive, netting 17 goals in 30 matches in all competitions. The 30-year-old guided the Polokwane side to the CAF Confederation semi-finals. This led him to attract interest from PSL and international teams.
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