Marumo Gallants FC are standing by head coach Phuti Mohafe as the team searches for its first victory of the new Betway Premiership season. The club's leadership has no immediate plans to make a change despite the team collecting just one point from its first three league matches.
A 2-0 defeat to champions Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday extended the winless run. The loss left Gallants at the bottom of the early standings, a position the club is eager to escape. Their next chance comes on Tuesday, August 25, when they host TS Galaxy at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. You can view the full schedule on our fixtures page.
Why is the club showing patience now?
Marumo Gallants have a history of quick changes in the technical area, making the current stance notable. Chairman Abram Sello explained the club's project-oriented approach when Mohafe was appointed from Polokwane City in the off-season. Speaking at the 2026 Mafori Cup launch in July, Sello stressed the need for a committed partnership. "We wanted a coach who was committed to the project and whom the club could also commit to," Sello told media.
The appointment was based on Mohafe's track record of making teams competitive and challenging for top-eight finishes, a target Gallants share. The club intends to show patience, describing Mohafe as an experienced local coach who understands his work.
What positives have they seen in performances?
Internally, there has been encouragement from aspects of the team's play despite the results. The management believes Mohafe is the right man to lead a turnaround. The team's approach to possession and its ability to create scoring opportunities have been viewed as positive signs.
The immediate focus is on improving efficiency in front of goal and converting the chances being created. This will be vital against TS Galaxy, a team that finished 8th last season. Gallants' squad, which you can review on our squad page, includes experienced campaigners like midfielder Katlego Otladisa and defender Sibusiso Khumalo, who will be key to securing that first win.
What does the data say about their situation?
While the start is concerning, it remains very early in the 30-game season. The club's current points tally of one from a possible nine puts them in a difficult spot, but history shows recoveries are possible. The next match presents a direct opportunity to climb off the bottom.
A look at the broader squad data reveals areas for potential improvement. The team has conceded five goals in three matches, highlighting a need for defensive solidity. Building a run of form will require contributions from across the roster, including new signings integrated during the pre-season. The final fixture before the upcoming international break is at home to Royal AM on September 13.
