Highlands Park assistant coach Allan Freese has no doubt that Mahlatse Makudubela’s and Tendai Ndoro’s experience will come in handy for the Absa Premiership returnees.
Both new signings made their debuts in Friday’s 2-2 draw with Maritzburg United at Harry Gwala Stadium.
Makudubela, who worked with Freese when the now-defunct Platinum Stars won the MTN8 and Telkom Knockout in 2013/14, was recruited after he was released by Orlando Pirates at the end of last season, after coming back from a loan stint at Chippa United.
Ndoro was also signed as free agent last month, but had to wait to make his bow as he completed a three-game ban dating back from his spell at Ajax Cape Town last season. He was suspended for playing for three clubs in a season, in contravention of FIFA rules.
‘Fire’ looked sharp and set up the first goal scored by Lindokuhle Mbatha when he back-heeled the ball into the path of the former Mamelodi Sundowns attacking midfielder, whose deflected shot brought his side back on level terms.
He also came close to getting on the scoresheet in the 22nd minute when he triggered a sharp save from Richard Ofori after the hosts failed to clear their lines.
Freese conducted the post-match interview for Highlands, with an official saying Da Gama was unwell.
“No, they [Makudubela and Ndoro] did well for their performances,” Freese said.
“They were signed to come and help the team, to take the team forward. It is the first game maybe, there’s a lot of games to play. So yes, they come and they’re coming to add value to the team.
“That’s what good about them, they’re coming here to add value, which we appreciate.”
Freese was left satisfied with the fighting spirit his outfit showed against the Team of Choice.
“It was a challenge for us to come back twice, but I think we did well,” he said.
“After the second half when we came back, I think we really, really played well. They had opportunities to go and win the game, unfortunately it didn’t happen.
“But I think another draw, yes, but this one we could’ve won. We did start well but also conceding, I think it puts us on the back foot. I think the set-pieces, the corners, we should have defended a little bit better.
“So ja, we’ll like to go back and work on that one.”
After the international break, the Lions of the North, who are 10th on the log with 12 points from 10 games, will host bottom-side AmaZulu on November 27 at Makhulong Stadium. – KickOff
