Uthongathi part ways with coach Dladla despite promising start

Motsepe Foundation Championship side Uthongathi have parted ways with head coach Simo Dladla despite the promising start to the new season.

The decision to release Dladla, who was in his second stint as Uthongathi coach, had nothing to do with results but the challenges on the KwaZulu-Natal side.

After four matches in the second-tier league, the Cane Cutters in fourth place are yet to suffer defeat with eight points.

They clinched wins against promotion candidates Baroka FC and Hungry Lions and two draws against newcomers MM Platinum and University of Pretoria.

However, the positive results didn’t stop the KZN outfit from letting go of Dladla from his duty.

THE LETTER TO DLADLA

According to insiders, both parties ended their relationship on Friday after spending several days talking to find a way forward.

It is believed that the club and the coach disagreed on certain terms, with Uthongthi admitting that they are struggling to acquire the services of players due to finances.

“There’s been a lot going on at Uthongathi. Despite winning games, things have been tough, and on Friday, they decided to end their relationship with Dladla,” a source close to FARPost said.

“One of the issues was getting players; the club has been struggling to secure the services of some players, which made it hard for the coach to work.

“And the coach couldn’t agree on certain things, which led to the end of their relationship.”

The former Swallows assistant coach became the second coach to leave the club prematurely, as Papi Zothwane resigned just a week before pre-season to join Polokwane City.

It is said that the club has been dealing with financial challenges, and they’ve been asking for assistance from the KZN sports department.

Dladla, who has also worked at Real Kings and Richards Bay FC, has joined the list of coaches currently searching for new clubs.

The coach was unavailable for a comment when FARPost reached out.