Arthur Zwane hails Johnson as AmaZulu find relief between the posts

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane has hailed the emergence of Darren Johnson as a much-needed boost for the club’s goalkeeping department, long regarded as one of Usuthu’s most problematic areas.

Johnson, who joined from Chippa United at the start of the season following the departure of long-serving captain Veli Mothwa, was expected to serve as understudy. But fate had other ideas. With Richard Ofori sidelined through injury, the 28-year-old was thrust into action earlier than anticipated — and Zwane believes he has not looked out of place.

“The goalkeeping department has been a challenge that we’ve had at the club for some time when you look at the kind of goals we have been conceding,” Zwane admitted.

The coach emphasised the role of a reliable shot-stopper in shaping a successful team, noting how the best clubs always build from the back.

“When you look at all the best teams, championship-winning teams that is, they all have really good goalkeepers, a stable defence and a finisher,” he said.

Johnson has already delivered moments of assurance in key games, with Zwane highlighting his standout displays against Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch in the MTN8 quarter-final and Marumo Gallants.

“When it comes to our goalkeeper, he’s done very well, we saw it against Sundowns, Stellenbosch and Gallants as well,” Zwane explained.

While AmaZulu’s early cup exit may have been a disappointment to some, Zwane believes the timing has been a blessing in disguise for his young keeper, allowing him to grow without the glare of knockout football.

“Another person might say if AmaZulu were in the semi-final, it would have been a good thing for the club, but also maybe it gives players like Johnson an opportunity to grow without a lot of pressure and we appreciate that time,” Zwane said.

For Zwane, stabilising the goalkeeping department is part of a bigger plan to build a team capable of competing consistently in the Betway Premiership. With the defence showing signs of improvement and the attack still sharpening its edge, having a reliable presence in goal brings balance to the project.

Johnson may have been handed his chance sooner than expected, but he has grabbed it with both hands. And while he still has much to prove, Zwane is confident AmaZulu’s future between the posts is brighter than it has been for some time.