The head coach of The Bees FC, Joel Masutha, says he is delighted after successfully guiding the team away from the relegation zone.
Masutha joined the Mbombela-based side from Musina United three months ago, when The Bees were 14th on the log with 16 points and fighting for survival. He led the team to five wins, four draws and four defeats, with The Bees finishing 10th on 35 points.
Speaking after the side’s 2–2 draw with Kruger United at Kanyamazane Stadium in Mbombela last Sunday, Masutha said he had achieved the mandate set by club chairman Julius Magunga: to retain the team’s Motsepe Foundation Championship status.
He said he accepted the job after being convinced the target was realistic, despite the club’s struggles at the time. His first match in charge ended in a 1–0 defeat to Casric Stars at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in Kwamhlanga.
Masutha said he did not panic after that result, believing the squad had enough quality to move out of danger. He singled out Cape Town City, Milford FC and Black Leopards as some of the toughest opponents faced during his tenure.
Asked about a possible return next season, Masutha said anything was possible, adding that he had enjoyed his time at the club. He also expressed disappointment at the relegation of his former side, Black Leopards FC.