Brian Mandela Dropped But Relegation Worries Still Persist for South African Club

Kenyan defender Brian Mandela was dropped from the squad by his South African club Orbit College but it still did not yield the desired result.

Mandela, who had played Orbit College’s last four straight games was missing from the squad as they took on South African giants Kaizer Chiefs on Monday afternoon, looking for points to boost their chances of avoiding relegation.

Orbit College coach Pogiso Makhoye dropped experienced pair of Mandela Lesedi Kapinga for Katlego Mkhabela and Lebohang Lesako as they clashed with Chiefs at the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium but were on the end of a 3-1 defeat.

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The home side started brilliantly as Mbulelo Wagaba gave them a 22nd minute lead and it took Chiefs nearly the same number of minutes before they restored parity when Wandile Duba scored in the 42nd minute for 1-1 at the break.

After halftime, Chiefs came back rejuvenated and scored the second goal in fine fashion when Mduduzi Shabalala completed a fine move in the 68th minute and the Glamour Boys would add gloss on the scoreline with the third goal through midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu 12 minutes from time.

It was the third straight loss for Orbit College, who are now in a dangerous 15th position in the 16-team league, with just 18 points from 23 matches.

With seven matches to go, the club will have to improve quickly if they are to avoid relegation but there is hope as Marumo Gallants, in 14th place, also have 18 points while 13th placed Chippa United are on 20 points.

Orbit College brought in the likes of Mandela to help them with their experience in their first season in the top flight and the Kenyan defender has played four matches since signing in the midseason transfer window, starting three.

Mandela will be hoping to be back for his team’s crucial match to fellow relegation candidates Marumo Gallants on Saturday.