Cape Town - Former
Kaizer Chiefs striker Marks Maponyane has hailed the contribution of
club founder Kaizer Motaung, for his influence in building the side to
what it is today.
Motaung, who turns 73 on 16 October, founded the Glamour Boys on 7 January 1970 and the club has since gone on to become one of the most successful and well supported teams in South Africa.
As such, Maponyane, who scored close to 100 goals during a 10-year career at Naturena, told Chiefs' official website, "He's also somebody who is prepared to listen and give honest advice when needed. Kaizer really loves his team and the beautiful game of soccer."
The 55-year-old also recalled how the chairman wasn't afraid to hand out stern criticism in order to boost performance. Commenting on a match against Wits in which the team were 3-0 down at half time, he shared what 'Chincha Guluva' told the players, "'I see you guys didn't pitch. I will see you all on Monday, heads will roll.'
"I had never seen Kaizer like that. But he was right. We were playing in cruise control. We were really bad. We regrouped and decided that we had to show the Chairperson our worth in the second half. We won 4-3. The meeting on Monday never happened."
'Go Man Go' concluded, "You have built Kaizer Chiefs into the best club in the country, make it even stronger. Continue to be the gentleman you have always been. You are now becoming 73. I wish you get to at least 100."