Middendorp parts ways with Maritzburg
Ernst Middendorp on Thursday achieved an unusual hat-trick in the Absa Premiership when he parted with Maritzburg United for the third time after asking them to relieve him of his contract.
It’s been almost 11 months since Middendorp left the Free State and headed back to KZN’s capital city but on Thursday he left the club yet again after the previous two spells at the Team of Choice.
“After a few games this season, I realised that the challenge to save the club was in fact made even more difficult by challenges that were really beyond my control. It was very stressful to manage the situation,” said Middendorp.
Assistant coach Fadlu Davids will be in charge until further notice.
When Middendorp signed a two-year contract to stay at the club and rebuild a team he was hoping they would be competitive and challenge for a place among the top teams in the new season.
“However, again on the field, circumstances put us in a disadvantage and as such we lost critical points that would see us on a much better position on the log by now.
“It was very difficult to continue under such circumstances. Eventually, after the Highlands Park game where even the fans became emotional, I took two days off to reflect on the situation and the club brand being under threat as a result.
“I then approached the chairman and persuaded him to release me from the contract for the sake of avoiding damage to the club and to protect the brand.
“I indicated that after the Cape Town assignment, I would resign. The chairman tried very hard to persuade me to stay and complete what I had started, but I felt very strongly that it is in the interest of the club that I step down.
“I believe that I have assembled a squad that is capable of challenging to be in a strong position this season, and I would therefore not like to see them being compromised.”
Chairman Farook Kadodia, expressed his disappointment at having to release Middendorp.
“It was a very painful decision to allow Ernst to go. I tried to persuade him to stay, but he was adamant that to leave was the best thing to do for the sake of the club.
“I understand where he is coming from with this, and painful as it is, I had to give in to his request.
“We are grateful to the coach for the foundation he has laid, the combination of youth and experience.
“He leaves us with 10 points after 10 games, having promoted about five players from the Diski Team, and the Diski team itself is doing well at the moment.
“Undoubtedly, with the brand of football that he introduced, the fans responded with appreciation and enjoyed it. We wish him all the best with his future plans.”