University of Fort Hare release 14 players in an attempt to finish top four

UFH sent seven midfielders, four defenders, two goalkeepers and one forward packing as they attempt to overhaul the team.

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, Feni says the move speaks to their mission for 2024.

“Definitely, it was a clean-up that needed a lot of courage. To start with the technical team, it was not an easy decision to make - these are coaches that have been with the team for some time, and they are the ones that won us the Sasol League play-offs to qualify for the Hollywoodbets Super League. But the decision came after a rough season of 2024, where we changed coaches three times in one season. 2024 was full of challenges and we are learning from those challenges,” said Feni.

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Just recently, the institution informed SABC Sport that they will be introducing a new coach and technical team to take up the reins for the 2025 season – in place of Sipho Cottage and Sphamandla Mbele.

Although not officially named, the public broadcaster has reliably learnt that the new man in charge at Fort Hare was formerly with Royal AM in KwaZulu Natal.

He is also believed to have recruited some players from Thwihli Thwahla who opted to jump ship as trouble looms in the Pietermaritzburg-based outfit.

“Also with the players, it was not an easy decision as some of them have been with the team and played a good role, but this year we focus on our strategic goal, which is to promote University of Fort Hare football and the Fort Hare brand. Promoting the brand can only be driven by competing with the best and being the best in the league, which brings us to our plans this year - to finish in the top four position in the league,” added Feni.

In only their first season in the Hollywoodbets Super League after gaining promotion from the Sasol League, UFH narrowly missed out on a top eight spot as they finished in ninth position in 2024.

They amassed 39 points, thanks to 11 wins from 30 matches. They drew six and lost 12.

Here are the names of the players who been let go:

Goalkeepers:

Amahle Dinwayo, Lindokuhle Duntsu

Defenders:

Yonela Keto, Thuliswa Gwiji, Okuhle Stemela, Mamela Zifune

Midfielders:

Zandile Mxasa, Sinayo Kupiso, Nizole Ngece, Sesethu Jaxa, Siziphiwe Gwazela, Chwayita Kapiyana, Afika Gxumisa

Forwards:

Oyisa Marhasi