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The season did not feature many standout players, so it was a daunting task for Timothy Molobi to pick the best PSL XI – with the biggest challenge being how many Kaizer Chiefs players to omit from the list.
Champions Kaizer Chiefs dominate the team, with five players in our 4-4-2 formation.
The benchmark of those who played 70% of their teams’ games resulted in many contenders, so we tried to find a balance for the team and spread it as wide as possible. Here is City Press’ ideal team of the year:
Goalkeeper:
Moeneeb Josephs (Bidvest Wits)
This proved an easy task. Josephs got the nod ahead of Patrick Tignyemb and Brilliant Khuzwayo. He was consistent and pulled off some jaw-dropping saves.
Right back:
Thulani Hlatshwayo (Bidvest Wits)
He earned his spot by being outstanding in different positions. The skipper’s performances at central and right back have been outstanding. Strong tackles, victory in aerial duels and adventurousness going forward allowed Hlatshwayo to occasionally make the scoring sheet.
Centre back:
Tefu Mashamaite (Kaizer Chiefs)
It seemed the current captain had made the wrong decision when he joined Amakhosi four seasons ago, as he did not feature. However, he got a new lease of life under Stuart Baxter. Part of Chiefs’ success has been their defensive record, and the 30-year-old has been a reliable part of that, while also scoring winners against Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final, Ajax Cape Town in the league and the Township Rollers in the CAF Champions League.
Centre back:
Eric Mathoho (Kaizer Chiefs)
He secures a place for contributing to Chiefs’ sterling season. Mathoho has been in the thick of things at the heart of the meanest defence in the league, having only conceded 14 goals.
Left back:
Tsepo Masilela (Kaizer Chiefs)
The former Bafana Bafana fullback has enjoyed one of his best seasons in Amakhosi colours. He played a crucial role in helping the team win the league title, using the experience he acquired in Europe to good effect. He has hardly put a foot wrong and created a number of scoring chances for his team-mates.
Midfielders:
Willard Katsande (Kaizer Chiefs)
Not many will argue against the inclusion of this man, who has been Amakhosi’s unsung hero – improving his sometimes reckless play and becoming a more clinical footballer this season.
Cole Alexander (Polokwane City)
City’s revival and high goal count this season is in no small measure due to Alexander’s assists and control in the midfield. The 25-year-old kept rivals at bay with his workaholic behaviour. Little wonder then that big clubs are eyeing his signature.
Thuso Phala (SuperSport United)
Despite a dip in form in the middle of the season, Phala has done enough to warrant a place in the team, delivering the Telkom Knockout trophy for the team. He has also improved his defensive duties.
George Lebese (Kaizer Chiefs)
One of the most promising and exciting wingers – who is yet to reach his full potential. Lebese grabbed the opportunity after Siphiwe Tshabalala’s injury earlier in the season and has never looked back. He made an immense contribution to Chiefs reclaiming the league title. Lebese was Chiefs’ leading scorer, with seven goals.
Strikers:
Lerato Lamola
(Bloemfontein Celtic)
Despite his team blowing hot and cold, Lamola has made finding the back of the net a habit – with 13 goals. He has been a marvel to watch. Coach Clinton Larsen has high regard for Lamola – but it will be difficult for Celtic to hold on to him.
Cuthbert Malajila
(Mamelodi Sundowns)
Sundowns need players to be on top of their game at all times and Malajila managed this throughout the season. With so many talented players at the coach’s disposal, Malajila was surely at the top of Pitso Mosimane’s team sheet. He is equally superb in the air and with both feet on the ground. His 10 goals bear testimony to that.
Coach:
Stuart Baxter
(Kaizer Chiefs)
After landing the MTN8 and the league championship, the Englishman proved his worth. He has transformed Chiefs into a well-oiled machine
