Kauleza’s contract with Free State Stars is set to expire at the end of the season and even though management has said nothing about extending his stay, good news for Stars’ fans is that the striker wants to remain on at the club next season.
Kauleza was idolised and worshipped by supporters during his first stint with Stars, to the extent that he won himself nickname ‘Gusheshe’ for his speedy and skill.
That was before League was trimmed down to 16 teams and club boss Mike Mokoena and his counterpart at Ria Stars, Ria Ledwaba, sold their franchises back to the PSL.
The ink on the deal had hardly dried when a Pirates’ official arrived to snatch Kauleza, his teammates Goodman Mazibuko and Hleza Mofedi, as well as their coach Roy Baretto back to Johannesburg.
Kauleza set the lights ablaze in the City of Gold, scoring a hat-trick of goals on his debut, in the oldest Soweto Derby of them all, against Moroka Swallows.
‘Gusheshe’ name was on everyone’s lips, but unfortunately, his performance in the famous black and white kit did not skyrocket; instead it took a dip and he found himself spending more and more time on the sidelines than on the field of play.
After failing to command a regular place, Kauleza jumped Pirates’ ship and headed for Jomo Cosmos where he lasted for less than a season before deciding to pack his bags and return home to the Free State.
“Some people say I failed at Pirates, but I am proud that I was part of the team that was last responsible for bringing the League title to the club.
“I think I made a big mistake by joining Ezenkosi, I should have returned immediately to Ea Lla Koto.”
Even when back at Stars, Kauleza still failed to regain his old form; that is until the recent arrival of assistant coach Sammy Troughton, who according to media reports, questioned why Kauleza was not a regular in their line-up.
“I wouldn’t like to say that the reason for me playing again was due to the arrival of Troughton. I’ve always worked hard; maybe the technical team had their own reasons for not playing me.
“When I got a chance to play against Ajax Cape Town, I grabbed it both hands and, hopefully, made a lasting impression. Since then I have had a number of games which has also helped me to regain my form.”
“We have had a good season at Stars, although I believe we should have done better and qualified for the Nedbank Cup Final. I looking forward to us carrying this form through to next season and with a bit of luck win the League next title season.
“But, as I said management hasn’t said anything about extending my contract yet, but my wish is to stay with the team again next season. In fact, my main wish is to retire here at the club.”
