Professor proving a master of man-management

When Mbabane Highlanders coach Mlungusi 'Professor' Ngubane suspended enfant terrible Mfanfikile 'Fash' Ndzimandze from the team's training two weeks ago, it looked as though the latter's Highlanders career was over. 

The pair's relationship hadn't gotten off to a good start when Ngubane took over the reins at Highlanders last month. According to club insiders, Ngubane felt Fash wasn't giving enough for the team. The South African coach decided to send the striker home for a week, urging him to go clear his head.

What was feared to be a premature end to Fash's return to 'Landers is now proving a masterstroke. Like the prodigal son he is, Ndzimandze returned to training early last week and as expected, started on the bench in Sunday's SMVAF Ingwenyama Cup last 32 clash with City Warriors. 

Highlanders were frustrated for the entirety of the first half and having seen enough, Ngubane turned to his prodigal son Ndzimandze at the beginning of the second stanza. Enter the game-changer. Fash was keen to keep up with the script. A script telling the story of a man given a second chance, a story of redemption, a man seemingly back from the dead.

The striker volleyed in his side's opener just two minutes into his introduction. He went to celebrate with his coach Ngubane on the technical bench. It looked as though it was a thank you for a second chance given. From there on, his side cruised. Four more goals followed including another sumptuous finish by the blonde-haired forward. He could even afford to miss a penalty late on. Such was Highlanders dominance after his introduction. 

In post-match comments to journalists, Ngubane explained how he was trying to get the best out of Fash. Perhaps the tough love has worked after all. There's no doubting Fash's talent, he is a gifted finisher but there has always been doubts about his discipline. But now he has met a coach willing and able to help him overcome his demons.

Ngubane has proved he will lay down the law and demand everyone to abide by it. Indeed striker Gabriel Goshen is already on his way out of the club. Fash could have been next but he has been given a second chance and has redeemed himself. Now it is up to the flamboyant striker to build on this performance. It’s time to bury those demos once and for all, Fash.