Ndlovu Opens Up On Pirates ‘Revenge’

Marumo Gallants goalkeeper King Ndlovu has opened up on his emotions after helping his side to knock Orlando Pirates, who were close to signing him, out of the Nedbank Cup.

The 29-year-old goalkeeper has been one of the standout performers in his side’s Nedbank Cup run, which has led to him being among the three nominees for the Player of the Tournament.

One of Ndluovu’s most impressive games came in the quarter-final against Pirates, when converted the final penalty in the shootout to send the Buccaneers packing.

The Gallants shot stopper now admitted that it felt a little bit like revenge for him after the Sea Robbers opted against signing him in the previous transfer window.

“To be honest that was more like a personal battle for me,” he said during his club’s media day.

“The rumours of last year, going there and whatnot. It couldn’t happen. So for me, it was like, yeah you guys made a mistake. 

“I felt very good after it for myself, I was just doing for myself. Like I said it’s a personal thing.

“I managed to be part of the team that eliminated them, producing a good performance, so I think they might’ve made a mistake there.”

Ndlovu also admitted that it’s a nice feeling to be among the final three nominees for the Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament award.

“It’s a nice feeling to be nominated for any award of some sort,” he added.

“It’s not easy for a goalkeeper to be nominated amongst the [outfield] players.

“Also personally it’s something, finish the season and you’re nominated for something, it means that you’re doing something good.”

Gallants face Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday’s Nedbank Cup final at Royal Bafokeng Stadium.

Story by Lethabo Kganyago and David Kappel. 

Don’t forget, the new edition of the free iDiski Times newspaper is out and in Shoprite stores in Gauteng. We do have a feature on Pitso Mosimane’s success on the continent, but also exclusive interviews with Stuart Baxter, Rulani Mokwena, Dan Malesela, Craig Martin and new Kaizer Chiefs signing Zitha Kwinika. Make sure to get your FREE COPY at your nearest Shoprite in Gauteng.