Abafana Bebatha still getting a feel for NFD | The Witness

The only local club competing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship (National First Division), Midlands Wanderers -- also known as Abafana Bebatha -- appear to be settling into the demanding league. At the start of the season, Wanderers showed signs of stage fright, and playing away for most of their games proved taxing, taking time to adjust. Some observers suggest the league can feel lopsided, with only two teams from KwaZulu-Natal and the rest from across the country. ALSO READ | Midlands Wanderers will find their way in time -- Myeni Head coach and founder Vincent "Masenti" Myeni acknowledged the challenge at the beginning of the season. Unfortunately, we were used to only playing in KZN when we were in the SAFA ABC Motsepe League. Life in the NFD is totally different. "With only two teams from KwaZulu-Natal, we travel a lot, and as newcomers, it took us a while to fit in. We expected it, and we are slowly but surely adjusting," said Myeni. Wanderers are currently in Limpopo to face Black Leopards on Wednesday. The good news for the Midlands outfit is that they beat Venda Football Academy 1-0, with Smiso Gazu converting a penalty. Myeni praised his players for winning in almost unbearable heat. "When we played on Sunday, it was 39°C. The heat was intense, but we fought hard. Arriving on Thursday helped us acclimatise to the Limpopo weather. "Overall, it was a great effort from our players," he said. Wanderers' next home game will be on November 1 at Harry Gwala Stadium at 3:30pm, against Kruger United FC. Tickets are available for R20 at Sasol Garage (near YMCA) and at Shoprite, Checkers, and U-Save stores. In league standings, Milford FC moved to the top of the Motsepe Foundation Championship this weekend, while Cape Town City gained momentum with their second consecutive victory in matchday eight. ALSO READ | Teething problems for Midlands Wanderers in National First Division Following a 3-3 draw with Upington City last week, Milford returned to winning ways with a 2-1 victory against Black Leopards on Friday.