Moodaly: I Looked up To Stevie G And Iniesta

By Malose Wa Ga Lamola

Robyn Moodaly in action for JVW. Photo Cred: (Facebook: Robyn Kimberly Moodley) 

JVW Football For Girls midfielder Robyn Moodaly talks to ShakingInk about her decision to pause her time with the National team, her father's inspiration, the impact of having multiple teams in the Women's CAF Champions League, and how the Bedfordview-based team finished below the target on the Hollywoodbets Super League log standings last season.

JVW was predicted as one of the favorites to unseat Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies as the dominant team in South African women's football, and they had access to a number of Banyana Banyana players. The Johannesburg-born player thinks that the Blue Diamonds' inability to handle Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies' tenacity in the domestic league was primarily caused by having more players in the casualty ward. According to Moodaly, the team has learned from the setbacks of the previous season and is eager to build on those lessons going into the new one.

"Finishing fifth last season was definitely a disappointment and not a true reflection of JVW, especially given the expectations and the quality we know we have within the team. Injuries were a factor; inconsistent performances at crucial moments affected us a lot. However, we’ve reflected on those challenges, learned from them, and are using them as motivation to come back stronger this season. The team is focused on working harder and improving in every aspect, and we’re determined to compete at the highest level." Assesed Moodaly.

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Moodaly says having multiple teams in the continental showcase bodes well for the domestic league and the national team. Mamelodi Sundowns and the University of the Western Cape, two Hollywoodbets Super League teams, represented South Africa in the most recent CAF Women's Champions League late last year.

"It’s a massive achievement. Having two teams representing SA in the Women’s CAF Champions League has a significant positive impact on both the domestic league and the national team. For starters, it raises the profile of women’s football in the country, showing that the league is competitive and producing talent that can perform on the continental stage. It provides increased competition and exposure for players and overall improves the national team at the end of the day." Said Moodaly.

As she attends to her personal health, the 30-year-old Women's African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champion announced that her time with Banyana Banyana will be put on hold. Desiree Ellis promised to back Banyana Banyana in their attempt to reclaim the championship she helped win two years ago, despite the phenomenal Moodaly being a conspicuous absence from her team.

"As mentioned with regard to my statement, it wasn’t an easy decision to step away from the national team, but it was the best decision for me. I’ve taken some time to focus on personal and professional growth, and my main focus is the upcoming season. I'll always support Banyana Banyana and wish them the best for WAFCON and beyond."

Moodaly claims that because her father was a football player, she has a natural affinity for the game. An apple fell not far from the tree, so it was easy to follow in her father's footsteps. 'Robz' kept a close eye on Andries Iniesta and Steven Gerrard, admiring their valiant displays on the field.

"Growing up, I was inspired by my dad, who was also a football player. His passion for the game, dedication, and work ethic influenced me deeply and motivated me to pursue football as a career. He showed me the importance of discipline and love for the sport, and having him as a role model really shaped my journey. I always looked up to Iniesta and Stevie G because I loved the way they expressed themselves on the field." Moodaly concluded.

@Lamola_Herold