Ashford Athletic are the early pacesetters in Safa Cape Town’s Third Division – and let truth be told, they are looking good value for their money.
A 3-0 win in their opening match against YMO FC, followed by another impressive 3-2 away win against the Nedbank Regional champion and last season’s runners-up, Trinitarians in Uitsig, has sent out early warning signs to their rivals.
This marker that Ashford has laid down is obviously all down to the capabilities of their new coach, Curtley Daniels, who is no stranger to the Cape’s football public. Daniels won the Bayhill Premier Cup a couple of seasons ago with Grassy Park’s under-18s. His ability to develop and promote youngsters is what he prides himself on.
The 28-year-old Daniels, who was handed the position a couple of weeks ago, has been bold and brave and has already stamped his authority with the newbie in this league, dubbed as the ‘graveyard’ league due to its unforgiving and cutthroat nature.
Upon his arrival, Daniels recruited some exciting young talent, which has settled in very nicely with some of the experienced and seasoned campaigners, resulting in the debutant’s impressive start to the season.
Needless to say, the former Grassy Park United mentor has hit the ground running and has certainly found a winning formula, which bodes well for the Ashford faithful.
Daniels, however, has warned that it is still early days and they are not getting ahead of themselves.
“Look, this is my first time coaching in this league, and I’m aware it is a very tough and demanding league,” Daniels explained to No Bones with Jones. “It brings a different and new challenge every week. But that’s exactly why we’re here and why we assembled the squad we have.
“We’re embracing it. I’m really proud of how the squad has handled themselves so far — their attitude, the togetherness, and the hunger to improve every day. Over 38 games, it’s about consistency and trust within the entire group. The spirit this group has shown, I’ve got full confidence we’ll keep growing and pushing each other right to the end, but it is still early days and we shouldn’t get carried away with a solid start,” Daniels concluded.
Ashford will be eager to maintain their unbeaten and perfect record when they face Saxon Rovers (15h00) at the Bridge on Saturday, followed by Matroosfontein FC (15h00) in a double header weekend.
