A run of seven games without a win at the start of the season, comprising six defeats and a draw, would have raised serious concerns within the Siwelele FC’s hierarchy.
Without the benefit of a pre-season, head coach Lehlohonolo Seema inherited a SuperSport United side that had only just avoided relegation the previous campaign.
Since a 1-0 Bloemfontein derby victory over Marumo Gallants, however, Siwelele’s debut season in the Betway Premiership, following their acquisition of SuperSport United’s top-flight status, has developed into a story of gradual progress and increasing stability.
At the outset, the mandate was simple – secure survival. That objective now appears well within reach. Siwelele currently sit 10th on the table with 27 points, just three shy of the widely accepted 30-point safety benchmark.
“Let’s get to 30 points so that the season can finish. Come next season, we will build a new team that will challenge better in Jozi,” Seema said recently after his side held Orlando Pirates to a draw.
Considering SuperSport United’s struggles last season, Siwelele’s ability to match that 27-point tally with seven matches still to play underlines clear improvement. Crucially, they now hold an eight-point cushion above the relegation zone, offering a measure of comfort as the campaign enters its decisive phase.
HOME FORM CENTRAL FOR SIWELELE FC
Across their last 10 matches, Siwelele have suffered just one defeat, a narrow 1-0 loss to Chippa United. In that stretch, they have recorded two wins and seven draws, highlighting a growing resilience. Even when victories have been hard to come by, the team has consistently avoided defeat.
Home form has been central to their progress. In 12 matches on home soil, Siwelele have lost only twice, collecting five wins and five draws for a return of 20 points. Their ability to turn their home ground into a stronghold has underpinned their climb up the table.
On the road, results have been more difficult to secure. In 11 away fixtures, they have managed just one win, alongside four draws and six defeats. Even so, there have been encouraging performances, including 1-1 draws against title contenders Mamelodi Sundowns and Pirates.
Beyond survival, Siwelele have quietly emerged as potential top-eight contenders. They are currently just four points behind eighth-placed Golden Arrows, with a game in hand, keeping alive hopes of a finish that could surpass pre-season expectations.
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