BY TERRY MADYAUTA FC Platinum rising star Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya has revealed his admiration for former Warriors forward Khama Billiat and highly rated Mamelodi Sundowns forward Peter Shalulile, revealing that he has modelled his game on the South Africa-based stars.
Ngwenya has been having a dream debut season in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League which recently earned him individual recognition by being named the league’s Player of the Month for May.
Blessed with pace, skill and an eye for goal, the 19-year-old striker has scored nine goals this season, just two shy of the leading goal scorers William Manondo and Nyasha Chintuli who are tied on nine goals apiece, while Brian Muza has eight.
His statistics this season rank him as one of the best rookies in this current campaign and it remains to be seen whether he will be able to last the distance.
The fact that he cut his teeth into Norman Mapeza’s team fresh from high school has all, but showed the incredible talent he possesses, with his remarkable rise coinciding with that of Dynamos Bill Antonio.
Reflecting on his career so far, Ngwenya says he desires to follow in the footsteps of former Warriors star Khama Billiat.
“Khama Billiat and Shalulile the top striker in South Africa I like the way he scores and the way he plays. His speed play is what I like,” Ngwenya said.
“Those are top strikers and it’s my wish to be like them. It’s not going to be an easy road, but soon I hope to be up there God willing.”
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The youthful player also revealed that adapting to the FC Platinum dressing room was tough.
But it was former soccer star, Rodwell Chinyengetere, who helped him settle in at the club.
He joined together with Oscar Bhebhe and Thubelihle Ndlovhu who have also become his best friends.
“My first day was tough because joining giants FC Platinum makes you nervous. But special thanks to ‘king’ Chinyengetere he received us well and always encouraged us that it will work,” he said.
“I thought I was just part of FC Platinum, but I never thought I would play even a single game because the team was full of big stars.
“I was happy merely to be part of this big team because it was always my dream team in Zimbabwe as I grew up.
Ngwenya added: “My upbringing played a major role.
“My mom took me to BN Academy and she would help me buy my soccer stuff and this really uplifted me.
“My mother has always believed in me since I was growing up. My parents always made me believe I’m the best and they imprinted that in my head.
“Everyone in my family is very happy about my career. My brother once played for FC Platinum juniors, so the family is supportive.”
