Venda Football Club (VFC) have every reason to press the panic button. Despite the recent appointment of Mr Vladislav Heric as head coach, the team continues to struggle in the Motsepe Foundation Championship League, where they remain at the bottom of the log. VFC, also known as Maunavhathu, suffered another setback last Saturday when they lost 2-1 to JDR Stars at the Soshanguve Giant Stadium outside Pretoria.
Mr Heric, however, remains optimistic about turning the team's fortunes around. He stated that the players were adapting well to his coaching philosophy and that he expected positive results in upcoming matches. The former Black Leopards tactician has called on the team's loyal supporters to stay calm, assuring them that "good things are coming."
When asked if he still harboured hopes of reaching the promotional playoffs, given their current struggles, the 58-year-old coach expressed confidence that anything was still possible. He pointed out that 57 league points were still up for grabs, making it too early to predict which teams would gain promotion or face relegation.
"The league is like a marathon, and what matters most is how one finishes the race," Heric said. He added that their match against Pretoria Callies at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday would mark a turning point for the club.
Since Heric's appointment, VFC have managed to secure two wins and have collected eight points from their 11 matches so far.
Last Saturday's game against JDR Stars saw the home side take an early lead when Banele Hlope fired in a powerful shot, following a mix-up in the box. VFC managed to equalise in the 68th minute through a penalty, which Siyabonga Dudula calmly converted. However, JDR Stars reclaimed the lead later in the game when Prince Nxumalo scored the decisive goal.