Orlando Pirates player Relebohile Mofokeng (right) celebrates with Tshegofatso Mabasa (left) after scoring during the Nedbank cup round 16 against Hungry Lions FC at Orlando Stadium Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng is not letting success go to his head. Seen here: Mofokeng (right) celebrates with Tshegofatso Mabasa (left). Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
He may have put the final exclamation mark on an emphatic MTN8 final, but rising Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng is not letting success go to his head.
The 19-year-old midfielder came on as a substitute in the late stages of the trophy match against Stellenbosch FC, and scored Pirates’ third in a frenetic climax to the game which saw them crowned champions. The young Mofokeng was also at the centre of the controversy with Pirates second goaal, providing the assist by executing a clever quick free kick - albeit, from the wrong position.
Referee Abongile Tom allowed the goal to stand, leaving Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker fuming and dejected. Tom’s choice to allow a free kick to be taken quickly closer to the Stellies goal was the incorrect decision according to the laws of the game, and one which decided the contest. All this despite the protestations of the Stellenbosch players.
After going 2-1 down with time just about up, Stellies threw all their players forward which left them exposed at the back.
In stepped Mofokeng to punish his opponents in a moment he will savour for the rest of his career.
When asked about his impact on the game, the reserved Mofokeng was reluctant to take much credit for the victory.
“It’s not so much they trust me to come in the second half and make things happen but I feel like when I come in, I work for the team on top of the work of the players that started the match. We all worked for the team,” said Mofokeng.
“The players that started are the ones that wore down Stellenbosch for me to come in and do the simple things.”
Mofokeng explained that he had already been starting games and meeting expectations for Pirates, and when summoned from the bench he would do the same.
“So, when you start on the bench, it doesn’t mean you won’t play, you just have to stay ready.
“I’m grateful to my teammates for helping me score. Tshego [Tshegofatso Mabasa] was the one that passed to me so I could score.”