Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams has revealed how a recent honest conversation transformed the team’s energy amidst inconsistent performances and unhappiness with team management.
Sundowns have faced harsh criticism from supporters in recent weeks following a string of erratic results, particularly in the CAF Champions League. Consequently, head coach Miguel Cardoso has come under fire, with sections of the fanbase calling for his dismissal. Tensions escalated recently when the Portuguese mentor and sporting director, Flemming Berg, were confronted by angry fans.
Despite the turbulence, the 2016 African champions qualified for the quarter-finals after finishing second in Group C, where they have been drawn against Stade Malien of Mali.
However, controversy continued to plague the camp before their recent weekend victory over Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger. Team analyst Mario Masha was suspended for allegedly leaking training information to Mokwena—an accusation the former Sundowns coach has denied.
Masandwana currently trail rivals Orlando Pirates by six points in the Betway Premiership, though they hold a game in hand. The two giants will clash at FNB Stadium this Wednesday at 19:30, in a match many believe could decide the title race.
WHAT RONWEN WILLIAMS SAID ABOUT THE SERIOUS TEAM TALK
Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated clash, Williams revealed how the talk where everyone had their say changed the spirit in the team ahead of their clash against MC Alger.
“Obviously, we had a lot of talks over the last few weeks, we had to reflect as a team,” Williams told the club’s media department.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS PLAYERS REFLECT ON THE RECENT INCONSISTENT RUN AS A TEAM
“We were not happy with where we were as a team. There were a lot of positive talks, that’s where we all got to sit down and share our thoughts, and it was good to listen to everyone. In this moment, everyone becomes a leader, and you listen and learn.
“You could see the change in spirit, the change in energy just around the team and around the training ground. So everything has worked out in the way that we expected after having those meetings,” he added.
“Obviously, to top it off, we had a wonderful result [against MC Alger]. I think that was one of our best performances this season. So we need to kick on now and keep those values that we discussed. Just respect the badge. The Mamelodi Sundowns badge is huge. It comes with a lot of responsibility, and we need to always make sure that we keep that at a high level.”
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