DURBAN - The discerning soccer fan would no doubt have had his memory jolted by the name Lebohang Maboe, the Maritzburg United midfielder who has been key to the Team of Choice’s splendid season.
That surname would have reminded of another player who once excited fans on the elite local scene. Sidwell Maboe. Remember him?
Maboe was the midfielder who played for Bloemfontein Celtic before he joined Orlando Pirates where he won both the BP Top 8 and the Bob Save Super Bowl.
He later moved to AmaZulu and also played for both Free State Stars and SuperSport United.
Maboe Jnr is now looking to emulate daddy by also adding winners’ medals to the family cabinet. And he is eager to start his collection with the Nedbank Cup one.
The Team of Choice take on one of Maboe Snr’s teams in Stars in the final at the Cape Town Stadium.
“My father has a lot o f medals he won during his playing days. I’ve told him I’m also bringing mine,” Lebohang said as he anticipated Maritzburg’s maiden cup final appearance.
Having been a key player for the Midlands outfit that has punched above its weight this season, a lot will be expected of young Maboe on Saturday. And he won’t be lacking for motivation.
“My aim is to emulate dad. His collection of medals is an inspiration to me. Mine also need to be displayed at home. He is my hero,” the youngster smiled.
As he looked ahead to the final, the Maritzburg talisman admits the two sides are evenly matched but is confident they will prevail.
“We’ve beaten them away and they beat us at home. It is going to be an open game. No team will sit back. It is their last game of the season. It is also our last game. We have to give it our all.”
Besides the trophy there is the desire to play in Africa too: “We want to campaign in the Confederation Cup next season. It is time we make history and take this cup and go and play Caf.
"The fans should be behind us, we want to reward them for packing the stadium (Harry Gwala) the whole season. We appreciate their support.”
Win on Saturday and he will be en route to emulating daddy.
@Minenhlecr7