Posted on 06 November 2009 - 15:20

THE LEAGUE RACE

The derby has come and gone, and as usual the post comments carry as much interest and controversy as those passed before the whistle signalled the start of the game.

I guess we have now grown accustomed to the condemnation and relegation of the derby; something that has become news material to those that thrive in developing angles that feed their hunger. This is unfortunate considering that it is news the fact that the derby still draws capacity crowds and it is often preceded by drama and suspense from its planning phase leading to the final whistle.

I however believe that there have been numerous derbies that ended with a similar result judging from the approach, the preparation and the execution of the play on the field. I also believe that there have been derbies that witnessed the misfortune of the players who may have given their all to convert after creating scoring opportunities, but eventually had to embrace the outcome that may not necessarily be convincing to the ever present critics.

Surely with such a background, we cannot be fazed by post match reports that may be starved of insight except to state that the derby’s atmosphere remains unchallenged for the nature of the entertainment it provides. The fact that the derby attracts politicians and top socialites and draws crowds that rely on carefully crafted logistical plans around access and evacuations, is proof that the match cannot just be subjectively judged on the basis of a balanced on-the-field war.

For us that have been in the middle, we know that the derby poses demands on everything that is needed to make it successful. I thus believe that our return to Orlando Stadium for the current season’s derby has delivered a successful event. We must celebrate that the event concluded without incident on crowd behaviour, road accidents, and many incidents that would have dented our obligation to deliver yet another exciting spectacle.

On the field of play, it was evident that both teams were cautious and stuck to the tactical plans that were employed. Our numerous attempts at goals including those of Orlando Pirates could have obviously crowned the experience but again, it was a question of misfortune for some of the players. With our compacted league adding to the challenges, it has become common to play with lads that may have been tethering on fatigue particularly after a hectic midweek encounter against Golden Arrows.

May I also reiterate our apologies for delaying the start of the game unfortunately the only blemish to an otherwise good Saturday afternoon.

WITBANK ACES

This was one encounter that almost turned a disappointment following our defensive lapses that resulted in us conceding three goals before the match went into half time. This unusual feat raised concerns on our defence; something that Witbank Aces capitalised on to almost snatch victory.

May I give credit to Aces for staging a character-filled display that could have turned in their favour had they not created the infringement that gave us a drawn result. The six goals scored indicated that all teams have working hard to erase the hunger of scoring margins for most teams that may be experiencing the goal-drought.

FREE STATE STARS This weekend we travel to the Charles Mopeli Stadium to engage Free State Stars, another tough opponent that may want to take advantage of its home ground.

Our experience over the years have taught us that the Free State troupe is dangerous in its hometown just as we complete the first round of our league race. Besides the team, our players would have to contend with the often unplayable pitch which our opposition has mastered to their full advantage. I believe however that we carry enough arsenal for the match and the rest demands more character and determination from our lads to claim maximum points. It would be encouraging to gain victory so that it prepares for the last stretch in the second round of our pursuit for the league title.

BAFANA BAFANA

Now that we have passed the re-appointment of Carlos Alberto Parreira despite the drama and controversy that engulfed the process, it is prudent that we all rally behind the team as the 2010 event draws nearer.

In a cleverly and calculated move, Parreira has resurfaced to guide our nation and the focus should now be on finalizing our preparations by supporting the decisions he may advance.

In the meantime, may I wish the lads well and welcome the return of Bennie Mc Carthy to the squad.

CONDOLENCES

I wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the family and relatives of Abel Shongwe over the passing of their mother.

May I also express our condolences to the family and relatives of Joseph Rapelego who passed on this week.

I pray that these families remain strong during this difficult period.