If there were ever any doubters, a hat-trick of man-of-the-match performances have affixed Orapeleng Manopole as a player to watch in this season of Varsity Football.
Pajero, as he is affectionately known due to his tendency to “run a lot as a child,” has stunned opponents and fans alike with his match-defining exploits. A product of Bloemfontein’s dusty streets, Pajero’s football career began at the age of 8 at Bochabela Primary School and progressed at Hodisa Secondary School.
Although he was part of the team that won the Engen Knockout u/17 championship in 2010, that is not his only highlight. After joining the Central University of Technology (CUT) in 2011, Manopole played a part in their promotion to the ABC Motsepe League in the 2013/14 season.
Known for his trickery, Manopole takes inspiration from the buoyant CUT supporter base. “My supporters and teammates drive me. I play for them.” Having racked up 3 goals, Manopole feels that young players in South Africa do not use the opportunities presented to them. “The opportunities are there, but majita [guys] don’t push,” says Orapeleng.
While he is looking to take full advantage of the pedestal he finds himself on, Manopole is willing to bide his time on the way to the top. “I want to start off at Celtic and work my way up. And, like many a young South African footballer, Pajero wants to eventually ply his trade in Europe.
Even though the 4-0 reverse in Tshwane was a hard pill to swallow, Manopole is confident that his side will win the tournament. “That match is water under the bridge.” He felt that the loss came at the right time and gives them the opportunity to address key issues in their game plan.
Without mincing his words, Manopole fired a prophetic shot at Tshwane University of Technology:
“We will meet in the final and we will win the tournament.”
By Sam Styrax
