Sinethemba Badela hails Ernst Middendorp partnership as Durban City begin new era

New Durban City head coach Sinethemba Badela has labelled the chance to work with technical director Ernest Middendorp as a blessing, with the pair aiming to build an even stronger second half of the Betway Premiership season.

Badela faces the immediate challenge of maintaining his new side’s impressive start to the campaign when he begins his tenure with a league encounter against Polokwane City on Sunday at Chatsworth Stadium (6pm kick-off).

The former Chippa United coach makes his return to the top flight after his spell with the Gqeberha-based club came to an abrupt end earlier this season, following a reported fallout with then Chilli Boys technical director Sinesipho Mali.

Badela, who has previously been in charge of the Mamelodi Sundowns DDC side, will now work alongside Middendorp, one of the most experienced figures in the local game, having enjoyed spells with several top-flight clubs.

He replaces veteran coach Gavin Hunt, who has since moved on to Stellenbosch FC after guiding the newly promoted Durban City into a respectable league position before the two parties parted ways.

Speaking ahead of his new role, Badela expressed his satisfaction with the opportunity in front of him and the lessons he hopes to gain from working closely with Middendorp.

“I see it as a blessing, he gives me freedom to work and doesn’t interfere in my work,” Badela said of Middendorp.

“He's my opposite, I work until early mornings and he works early, so every morning when I wake up he sends me different ideas.

“We have a good relationship and I learn a lot from him every day, and when I am not sure of something his door is always open. I am grateful to have someone who has been there and done that. He knows what a coach needs, and he is very supportive, I can’t ask for more.”

Currently placed eighth on the standings, the Citizens come up against a Polokwane City side they trail by just one point, with Rise and Shine having played one match less than their hosts.

With the current campaign shaping up to be one of the most competitive league seasons in recent years, Badela has been encouraged by his side’s progress, and was grateful for the extended break due to the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

“It’s been a brilliant three weeks with the team,” Badela continued

“The AFCON break helped us a lot because it gave us time to work with the players and they have been responding well.”

The 36-year-old coach is expecting a tough test against the Limpopo-based outfit, who have established themselves as one of the league’s most difficult sides to beat.

“We have had a few double sessions and two friendly games, so we are looking forward to Sunday against Polokwane City at home in front of our fans.

“It’s going to be a very difficult game, all the games in the PSL are difficult. You will be playing against a Polokwane City team who have had the same coach for a few seasons now, a very good coach, and they are a team that doesn’t lose a lot of games.”