LISTEN: Kaizer Chiefs legend William Shongwe on how he ‘kept’ Gary Bailey on the bench
Shongwe was one of the best goalkeepers during the mid-80s and 90s.
William Shongwe and Robert Marawa. Photo: 947
947’s Robert Marawa chats to football analyst and former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper, William Shongwe.
Listen below:
Shongwe didn't know he'd be making a life-long friend when the former Manchester United goalkeeper, Gary Bailey came to Kaizer Chiefs in 1988.
Since Shongwe was one of Chiefs best goalkeepers at the time, many believed the two would become instant rivals. Instead, the keepers formed an extraordinary bond as they rotated on the field.
Bailey arrived after Shongwe had suffered an injury.
“Everybody thought that was the end of me, unbelievable!”
– William Shongwe, former goalkeeper
Bailey was the first-choice keeper when he signed but during an extended honeymoon, Shongwe recovered and found his way back to the number one spot.
Due to Chiefs winning streak with him defending the posts, the coach kept him in play.
“I am proud to say I kept Gary Bailey on the bench… that was one of the highest moments for me.”
– William Shongwe, former goalkeeper
“[From there] the rotation became the trend at Kaizer Chiefs, and just as well as we went on to win the league. We won four cups that season, it was one of our best seasons in 1989.”
– William Shongwe, former goalkeeper
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the discussion