The reason why Rulani Mokwena opts for Mvala over Kekana

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has revealed why he keeps choosing Mothobi Mvala ahead of Grant Kekana at centre-back. 

In the last five Sundowns games, Mvala started three, with Kekana only starting in two matches. 

Kekana was an unused substitute for Bafana Ba Style in a DStv Premiership clash against SuperSport United on Monday night.

In fact, Mvala was one of Masandawana’s standout performers in the Tshwane derby. The former Highlands Park utility player has received plaudits from his coach.

Mokwena took some time to appreciate Mvala in the presence of the media after the match.  

The 34-year-old mentor explained that his decision to start Mvala over Kekana is purely tactical.

WHY MOKWENA OPTS FOR MVALA OVER KEKANA…. 

“He’s been colossal,” Mokwena told the media. 

“For him to keep Grant Kekana out of the team must tell you something because Grant has been magnificent.

“When he has been very, very good, let’s write too, and how good has he been.”

He added: “One column dedicated to Mothobi Mvala about the transition that he has made from central midfield to mainstay at Mamelodi Sundowns at centre back with the quality of competition.”

Meanwhile, Mokwena also divulged that he would continue to monitor his players who play in the middle of the park as the season progresses.  

MOKWENA ASSESSING CENTRAL MIDFIELDERS… 

“Riva [Rivaldo Coetzee] has played, and we have been very good when he has played,” explained Mokwena.  

“On the other hand, AJ [Andile Jali] has played, and he has been magnificent when playing, and these are our top-class players. 

“There are also players like Sipho Mbule and Bongani Zungu who adds another value to the team.”

With all being said, Sundowns are currently flourishing on the summit of the log standings with 43 points, 14 points ahead of second-placed Richards Bay. 

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