After a topsy-turvey 2021/22 season with ABC Motsepe League side Mathaithai FC, former Royal Eagles shot-stopper Mbali Tshabalala is trying his luck at Free State Stars.
The Botshabelo-based outfit confirmed the news on their socials on Wednesday, despite reports suggesting that the club has sold its Motsepe Foundation Championship status.
He teamed up with Ea Lla Koto as the team continues with their pre-season ahead of the 2022/23 season set to kick off next month.
Tshabalala played a significant part in helping Sebete Boys to reach the last 16 of this year’s Nedbank Cup edition, where they suffered a heavy defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns with a 6-0 scoreline.
The side went on to get a rousing welcome despite the Nedbank exit in their home town.
Mathaithai is a very ambitious team with a coach that has an excellent philosophy, players with intent and also capable enough to challenge for promotion to the South African football third-tier.
Last season, the club finished in the fourth position in Stream A of the Free State ABC League with 22 points after 16 games with Tshabalala between the sticks.
following a very tough season, the club saw the need to start a bit early with the preparations so that when the season starts they are war ready for the uphill battle and what looks to be a very demanding season physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Meanwhile, Mathaithai welcomed back striker Killer Mankha after a one-season agreement with their neighbours Pro Mates FC.
They also invited the 17-year-old striker Thapelo Maloke from their development structure to join the team for the pre-season. The club believes that the youngster has a lot of potentials and he is amongst the top goalscorers in the IBL League. “He needs more nurturing and a chance to see how far he can go with the big boys.”
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