Kanalelo remains optimistic despite Marumo Gallants’ winless run

As they remain one of the only two teams without a win in the league so far this season, alongside Richards Bay, Marumo Gallants coach Ronnie Kanalelo has insisted that they’ll get out of the relegation zone.

The Namibian coach, who only joined the club last month to replace Phuti Mohafe, is convinced that the side is improving under his tutelage. Bahlabane ba Ntwa remain bottom of the table with just two points, having lost six of their eight league games so far with two draws.

“I would be worried if we were not creating chances, but we are creating chances but let down by decision making in the final third. As long as we create chances, anything is possible and I am more than confident that we will soon win games and get out of this situation,” Kanalelo said.

The coach has only been in charge of two games, losing both to Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United. Kanalelo has explained what he prioritised when he took charge, insisting that he sees improvements in the team.

“The biggest thing I had to work on since my arrival was the organisation and the structure of the team, making sure that the players operate from their positions effectively instead of just roaming around,” Kanalelo said.

“The players bought into this as quickly as possible. I am seeing a lot of improvements and it’s a matter of time before things work in our favour.”

Even so, Kanalelo suggested that he understands that his future may be at risk if the team continues to struggle, embracing the challenge head-on.

“This is a game of results...it’s a results-driven industry. Everybody asked, ‘why did you take such a job’? But it’s a good challenge and I believe in my abilities as a coach and I still believe I can take this team out of the pit-hole,” Kanalelo stated, adding that he doesn’t really worry about what the management may be thinking about him at this stage.

“What the management thinks about me, for me, is irrelevant and I don’t even want to think about it.”

Marumo next face Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout first round at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday (7pm).