Makhoye praises Saleng's impact on Orbit College's Betway Premiership debut

Orbit College head coach Pogiso Makhoye believes Monnapule Saleng’s return has injected a new level of maturity and influence into the Mswenko Boys, after they begun life in the Betway Premiership.

The Mpumalanga-based side made their top-flight debut on Saturday, falling to a narrow 1-0 defeat against AmaZulu at the Princess Magogo Stadium. While the result was not what Makhoye’s men had hoped for, the performance offered glimpses of their potential — particularly the impact of their returning star.

Saleng, on loan from Orlando Pirates, played the full 90 minutes in KwaMashu and impressed despite Orbit struggling to break down a well-drilled Usuthu defence. The 27-year-old’s pace, direct running, and ability to draw multiple defenders created the visitors’ best attacking moments. For Makhoye, seeing Saleng back in Orbit colours brought more than just nostalgia.

“I think with today’s performance, you can see that he has matured — he’s no longer the young boy who left us,” Makhoye said after the match.

“Now everyone looks up to him and his impact on everyone is huge, especially on the field. He draws two or three players to himself every time, and that creates space for others.”

Saleng’s journey has come full circle. Before making his professional breakthrough with Free State Stars and later becoming a regular for Orlando Pirates, he was part of Orbit’s early development years, helping shape the distinctive style of play that has become their hallmark.

Seven years on, his return to his home province comes at a critical time for the newly-promoted side. Makhoye sees his experience as vital in helping Orbit adapt quickly to the demands of the top tier.

“His experience will help us a lot and it will make teams think about the danger Orbit has whenever they plan for us,” Makhoye added.

For a club admired for their bold rise from amateur football to the big stage, Saleng’s presence offers more than just attacking firepower — it is a statement of intent that they aim to compete, not merely survive.

The narrow defeat to AmaZulu may have been a reality check, but with players like Saleng leading by example, Orbit have a figure capable of inspiring belief on and off the pitch as they continue their journey among South Africa’s elite.

The North West-based outfit will take to the field at Olympia Park on Tuesday, where they will welcome a buoyant Siwelele FC.