Jomo Biyela’s goodbye message to Stellies-bound Sanele Barns

Although the news of Barns’ imminent departure had been the worst kept secret since the start of the year, Biyela applauded the 27-year-old for his professionalism.

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Barns made 35 appearances, including helping the club retain their DStv Premiership status in the play-offs, and the owners says he’s grateful. 

''Like I said earlier on, I had to thank Barns  for what he has done for the club - he played almost 20 games, but he has never even said hey I have got a hamstring  or I've got  a groin, he's always available,'' said Biyela.

The former AmaTuks talisman yet again played a crucial role when The Natal Rich Boys beat Baroka FC 4-0 to guarantee their spot in the topflight.

Biyela reflected on his form on Wednesday too. 

''And most of the time he plays 90 minutes, and the reason he was substituted today is because you guys wanted some flair from Makhubela. So what do we do? You must give people what they want, added Biyela.

Biyela adds that Stellies have acquired a player with exceptional traits both on and off the pitch in Barns, who spent two seasons at Richards Bay.

The chairman has promised to continue giving opportunities to relatively unknown players, regardless of whether they are from KZN or not.