Johannesburg – New Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brilliant Khuzwayo took a moment to reminisce over old friend Senzo Meyiwa after being introduced to life at the club.
Former Pirates keeper Meyiwa was fatally shot in a 2014 robbery. At the time, Khuzwayo, who like Meyiwa hails from Umlazi, was at rival club Kaizer Chiefs. Now, having crossed the great divide and joined the Buccaneers, the 28-year-old couldn't help but spare a thought for his old friend.
"It's very emotional for me [standing in these goalposts], knowing that this was the last place Senzo stood before he passed away," he told Pirates' official website after taking to the pitch at the Rand Stadium.
"We come from the same place and we were close, so standing here brings back those memories and thoughts of him."
Although the move to Pirates is of huge sentimental significance to Khuzwayo, he has also started thinking about life on the pitch at his new club.
"I'm also looking out over the field and trying to visualise where I'd be distributing the ball, who will be running into the space and also imagining what it will be like playing in front of the fans in an official game," he continued.
"I'm really excited at being an Orlando Pirates goalkeeper and looking forward to making the supporters happy. We are, after all, the Happy People."
Khuzwayo joined Chiefs in 2012 from AmaZulu, but was left frustrated by a lack of playing time due to the consistent good form of Itumeleng Khune.
He will be desperate to emulate Meyiwa and claim a starting spot between the sticks at his new club.
