Two draws, one loss and currently being second last on the Varsity Tournament log is not something to get excited about, especially if you are a TuksFootball supporter.

Tlisane Motaung (UP-Tuks Head Coach) understands the frustration the fans are experiencing as he is just as frustrated.

“It is not that we have been playing badly, it is just that the players seem to be struggling to find the back of the goal net and without goals, you cannot win matches. That is the reality of the game, but I would urge fans not to lose faith. I am still confident that we will qualify for the playoffs.

“It should be remembered that we started off in the Varsity Football Tournament playing against three of the best teams. TUT is the defending champions; UJ was runner-up twice, and NWU is always a top contender due to their excellent development programme.

“We only need one or two games where we score three or more goals, and we will be back in contention.”

Motaung is confident that his team’s big turnabout will happen on Thursday when UP-Tuks plays Wits at home.

“I went to watch Wits play to get an idea of what their strengths and weaknesses are. I think the game plan we decided on will enable us to score a couple of goals.”

Motaung is not concerned that five of his regular players are not available as they are representing the USSA Student Team at the World Student Games in Taipei.

“At Tuks, we are fortunate that we have a lot of depth. I have full confidence in the players that will take to the field on Thursday.”

Motaung makes no secret about his huge affinity for TuksFootball.

“I am whom I am today due to the support and guidance I have received from the decision makers at TuksFootball.

“I started playing for them in 2004. From 2005 to 2009 I was captain of the team. Definite highlights were winning the USSA Football Tournaments on two occasions.

“The big turnaround in my football career happened in 2010. Somehow I got poisoned ending up spending two weeks in hospital in the intensive care unit. I thought I was going to die. TuksFootball supported me through this whole ordeal, and I am forever grateful for it.

“I tried to make a comeback, but it was to no avail. My mind was willing but not the body. Still, TuksFootball was not prepared to give up on me. They encouraged me to stay involved as an assistant team manager. The biggest surprise came about when they asked me to consider to coach one of the club’s teams. I was reluctant at first because I never considered becoming a football coach but I have no regrets.”

Motaung rewarded the faith shown by his abilities by getting his team to win their league. Two years later his team won the SAB League, and now he has his sights set on bigger goals like winning the Varsity Football Tournament.