MTN8: 'Chiefs still have bitter memories'
'Chiefs still have bitter memories'
Posted: 2010-09-10 16:03
Kaizer Chiefs midfield-cum-striker Abia Nale says bitter memories of having failed to reach the MTN8 Final last year after being bungled out by Ajax Cape Town in the semi-finals will spur them on this year as they bid to reach their second final in three years of the mobile operator's involvement in the competition.
After winning the MTN8 in its inaugural year in 2008, Chiefs failed to hold onto it last year but have the chance to reclaim the trophy in a two legged semi-final.
However, arch rivals Orlando Pirates stand in their way in what is also the biggest game in South African football, the Soweto Derby.
"Everyone in our team is looking forward to this cup game; the semi-final that will determine if we make it to the final. Remember last season we failed to get to the final after losing to Ajax so I believe we have to make it count this time around. It will not be alright for us to fail to cross this hurdle again this year because we know how bad it felt last year and don't want a repeat this year," declares Nale.
Like many other players scattered around the PSL Nale, who was groomed at Pirates, has also had a stint with the senior team.
"I was with Pirates for a long time, starting out in their development and so this is a chance for me to at least score against them as we go on to win.
"I will really want to score and help my team to victory in this game because I know the feeling that playing against Pirates brings. We will try and score at least a goal or two in this first leg so that we gain on the away goal advantage. In the second leg, we will not sit back and defend because we want to win convincingly.
"The positive thing about us at the moment is that we are creating plenty of chances. It is now up to us to capitalise on these and punish them," he says.
Nale, now minus his trademark dreadlocks, insists the approach will remain the same this despite being a Cup game and believes the atmosphere inside the FNB Stadium will provide the added motivation.
"There is no difference because the coach (Vladimir Vermezovic) always wants us to win regardless of whether it is the League or the Cup. As players we also always want to win. Regardless of what we are playing for. We always give everything when we play as every game counts like a Cup Final for us and we want nothing but to win," he argues.
"We always think about the people who travel all the way from their homes to come and watch us at times spending their last money. That alone motivates us to deliver a better performance every time we take to the field," concludes the Vaal native.
: 2010-09-10 16:32
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