Orbit College FC head coach Pogiso Makhoye has cleared the air regarding the absence of veteran defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele, who has been noticeably missing from the matchday squad in recent weeks.
The 36-year-old joined the North West-based side as a free agent in October 2025 following his departure from AmaZulu FC at the end of the previous campaign.
After impressing the technical team during a trial period, ‘Rama’, as he’s affectionately known, was handed a short-term deal and quickly hit the ground running at the side.
So far, he made 12 appearances across all competitions. However, the former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns defender has played no part in Orbit’s last four fixtures, sparking questions about his status at the club.
His last game in Orbit’s colours was during their Betway Premiership tie against the Chiefs, which they lost with a scoreline of 3-1 on April 6.
‘IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT RAMAHLWE MPHAHLELE’: POGISO MAKHOYE
Speaking after their 2-1 win against Magesi FC in their Betway Premiership encounter at Seshego Stadium on Tuesday night, Makhoye played down concerns over Mphahlele’s absence, citing a broader technical approach centred on squad rotation and youth development.
“Did you see Kobamelo Setlhodi today? He has missed about 16 games since the start of the season,” said Makhoye.
“So, it’s not just about Ramahlwe Mphahlele; it’s about the whole team and the rotation policy.”
The coach emphasised that the club is currently prioritising the integration of younger players as they look toward the future.
“We are building a very young team. If you check today [Tuesday], the average age was 23. So, I think we are building for next season. Even if we go to the NFD [Motsepe Foundation Championship], we’re building because we need these young boys.”
Orbit is currently placed 14th on the Betway Premiership table with 23 points after 27 matches. They are two points clear of the relegation-threatened sides Magesi and Marumo Gallants, who are in positions 15 and 16, respectively.
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