Mamelodi Sundowns see off Richards Bay to secure MTN8 semi-final
Mamelodi Sundowns secured their place in the semi-finals of the MTN8 with a convincing 4-0 victory over Richards Bay on Sunday.
The 37-year-old striker, who joined Sekhukhune in the off-season following the dissolution of SuperSport United, marked his debut with a decisive brace in the club's 3-2 comeback win over TS Galaxy in the MTN8 quarterfinals at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
Speaking after the match, Grobler underlined the club's competitive mindset as the key reason behind his move.
"It's been a long time since I lifted a trophy - I miss that feeling," he said. "I still have the hunger, and Sekhukhune is a team that shares that hunger. That was important for me."
Grobler's goals proved vital after TS Galaxy surged ahead through early strikes from Mpho Mvelase and Victor Letsoalo. The veteran pulled one back before half-time, heading in from a Keletso Makgalwa corner, before leveling the scores after the break from a Linda Mntambo assist. Vusimuzi Mncube struck late to complete the turnaround and secure Sekhukhune's place in the semifinals.
"The team showed great character," Grobler added. "That's something you can't coach - it's in the players. I've walked into a group that's mentally strong and serious about competing."
Grobler also cited his previous working relationship with head coach Eric Tinkler as a key factor in his decision to join Babina Noko.
"I enjoyed working with Eric at SuperSport. When the opportunity came up to join him again, I was excited. The way Sekhukhune has developed over the past two seasons shows that this is a club on the rise," said Grobler.
While Grobler brings experience and proven goal-scoring pedigree, he remains focused on contributing to the collective effort.
"I've achieved a lot in my career, but I'm not done. I came here to help this team take the next step - and that means winning trophies."
With one foot in the MTN8 semifinals and momentum building, Grobler's arrival could prove a catalyst in Sekhukhune's pursuit of silverware.