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Manqele targets 20 PSL goals

Bethlehem - Free State Stars' nimble striker Edward Manqele has set a target of 20 goals to mark his professional debut season in the Premiership.

The 24-year-old, who also earned his first cap for Bafana Bafana against Senegal in February, tops the scoring charts with 11 strikes, with eight matches left in the league.

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has set the incentive of a car for a player that scores more than 25 goals by the end of this season.

"It would be great if I can finish with 20 goals," Manqele said.

"If I stay consistent then I'll probably do it, but I know that I have to work hard.

"It is not about underestimating teams and wanting to do well against so-called big teams, but also the smaller teams."

Manqele was on Tuesday named the Premiership player of the month for February and March after a fruitful period for Stars.

Mamelodi Sundowns' boss, Johan Neeskens, scooped the coaching accolade.

It is a remarkable achievement for Manqele, who was playing in the Vodacom League (two divisions lower than the PSL) just last season.

Manqele added that he was proud of his early achievements and he was determined not to become a 'one season wonder'.

"I have seen how some players play one season and disappear," he said.

"Everything is about working hard and I will work towards becoming a better player."

Manqele praised Komphela's contribution to his improved game and the success of the Phuthaditjaba outfit.

"Steve is not only a good coach but he also advises us about life, and we are grateful to have him," Manqele said.

Stars face neighbours Bloemfontein Celtic at Charles Mopeli Stadium on Wednesday evening in the league.

Celtic won the corresponding fixture 1-0 at Seisa Ramabodu earlier this season.

Stars, currently 6th with 35 points on the log, stand a narrow chance of lifting the title, seven points behind first-placed Mamelodi Sundowns.

Komphela warned the top five teams of Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Moroka Swallows, Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United about his charges.

"Remember, Sundowns also still has to play us," Komphela said.

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