After securing the joint-best defensive record in last season’s Hollywoodbets Super League, the goalkeeping department at Sundowns Ladies will be aiming for more defensive masterclasses as the team continues to train ahead of the upcoming campaign.
The trio of Sedilame Bosija, Asa Rabalao and Andile Dlamini delivered excellent performances last season as Banyana Ba Style conceded just 13 goals on their way to clinching their third consecutive Super League title.
The goalies were also handed various opportunities in goal as the Chloorkop-side reached the finals of both the COSAFA Qualifiers and the CAF Women’s Champions League.
Sedilame who notably made her return to action during the third match week of last season after sustaining a long-injury layoff finished the campaign as one of the most consistent shot-stoppers in the league. The Botswana goalie was eventually nominated for the Goalkeeper of the Year at the end-of-the-season Hollywoodbets Super League Awards which was eventually won by Bloemfontein Celtic goalie Katlego Moletsane.
Ahead of the new campaign, Bosija has expressed her desire to deliver her best yet again as Banyana Ba Style seeks to reclaim continental glory.
“I am very happy to be back in training because it gives us another opportunity to pursue our dream which is to dominate every competition we participate in. We share a collective hunger in the dressing room to reclaim our place as continental queens. The training sessions have been designed to improve our conditions and fitness as we embark on our mission toward continental domination. My target for the upcoming season is to concede fewer goals than last season whilst clinching top honours across the three competitions we will participate in,” declared Sedilame.
Meanwhile, Rabalao who is also thrilled to be back in training camp is aiming for an injury-free season.
“Our return to training has been smooth because the technical team ensured that we were in top shape by providing us with personalized training plans during the break. On a personal level, I am devoted to the team’s desire to fight for the titles we lost last year. My aim is also to keep fit and be ready to deliver my best whenever I am called upon,” Asa stated.
Similarly, Andile Dlamini has her eyes set on repeating the treble feat Banyana Ba Style achieved in 2021.
“Our expectations for 2023 is to retain the league title and dominate the CAF competitions. At Mamelodi Sundowns, the expectations are high and we go into each season with great determination to excel across all fronts. The upcoming season will not be an exception and we are hoping to perform to the best of our abilities,” said Andile.
While Sundowns Ladies have been praised for their goal-scoring exploits in recent times, their defensive numbers in the Hollywoodbets Super League make for interesting reading. In the last two seasons, the Brazilians have conceded just 27 goals in 56 games and have kept an amazing 35 clean sheets in the process!
