It was Sibisi’s goals last season, together with Palmer’s temperament and managerial skills, that saw the PMB side narrowly avoiding the relegation zone.

This season, its been a very different scenario for Maritzburg – having had the benefit of a full pre-season, and having made some key signings, Palmer has galvanised the Team of Choice into a formidable side that are just one of two undefeated sides so far in the lague this season.

In fact, Palmer has lost just one match since rejoining the team back in March this year.

Sibisi says it’s the nature of the man, amongst his other attributes, that has gotten the best out of the squad.

“I feel we are really united this time. The team has come together strongly; the coaching staff and the management have backed us with their support. We are functioning as a unit and in such an environment, the players feel comfortable,” Sibisi told PSL.co.za.

The former Ajax and Sundowns striker says a change in thinking and approach has been a crucial factor.

“He brought a new sense of attitude with him. He is always telling us ‘there is no team better than you guys here’. This has been one of his main messages from the outset and he is constantly giving us this belief and setting us mini targets.

“The players are responding to him because he knows how to treat them. In life you get what you give and Ian Palmer is seeing the benefits of his hard work with everyone at the club. He respects everyone; he is humble and a fantastic coach. We appreciate him a lot here,” Sibisi said.

For now, despite the great start, its important for the team to remain grounded, says Sibisi.

“It’s still too early to be looking at where we could finish, but the start that we made is great for the club. We want to remain focused and maintain our unbeaten start when the league resumes. This is certainly the first time something like this has happened at Maritzburg United and it’s great for everyone, the supporters, the players and the management.

“I think with the start we’ve made there is a really good platform that has been built,” he added. “I’m not saying we’re going to win the league, but I can definitely say we’re going to finish in the top eight.”
Maritzburg’s next match is a tough one and a good gauge of their progress – they face league leaders SuperSport United on Friday night at the Lucas Moripe Stadium.

The former champions are the only other unbeaten team in the league.