Perhaps the arrival of Ted Dumitru has something to do with it as the

Romanian has breathed new life into the despondent Sundowns followers and the amazing turn-around is an indication that they want to take part in the one-day event at all cost.

Sundowns PRO Alex Shakoane praised their supporters for pushing their club and urged them to continue casting their telephonic votes and not rest on their laurels until the closing date for voting on midnight July 20.

Although Sundowns lead Chiefs by three votes only, a lead that could be short-lived if Amakhosi supporters rally behind their team, Shakoane was nonetheless upbeat and claimed this show of support gave him confidence that this could indeed be the year of the "Brazilians."

Sundowns won the trophy with the narrowest of margins, scoring a 1-0

victory over Chiefs and Shakoane said they were determined to defend the trophy and retain the league championship they surrendered to Orlando Pirates.

"I want Sundowns to play attractive, attacking soccer," said Dumitru. "But, first we must cut down on the number of playing staff and there all the players must convince me today that they are capable of producing the kind of football that I want.

"Those players who fail to impress me will unfortunately be given an

opportunity to try their luck elsewhere. I've recommended two young

international players from Namibia and two other local players to

management.

"We are in the process of reviving Sundowns but also aware that we need to win even though we are rebuilding. There are a couple of other young players like Jonas Mavimbela who Irate among the finest defenders in the country who were not given a chance.

"I am going to throw him in and I can assure people that they will never believe what they see when that youngster take the field. There are many other changes I want to bring but, let's wait until tomorrow when we will announce the players I'm keeping."

Sundowns have edged ahead of Chiefs after amassing 11 566 votes, followed by Chiefs close on their heels with 11 563 while league champions Orlando Pirates are third with 10 755 votes and Moroka Swallows trail behind with 9 058.

Lamontville Golden Arrows have staged a sensational last minute rally to depose Ria Stars on fifth and are now occupying that position with an incredible 6 404 votes while Manning Rangers follow close behind with 6 131.

All the votes:

Sundowns  		11 566



Kaizer Chiefs		11 563



Orlando Pirates	        10 755



Swallows		9 058



Golden Arrows	        6 404



Manning Rangers	        6 131



Ria Stars		3 402



Jomo Cosmos	        1 498



Bush  Bucks		861



Ajax Cape Town	        680



Celtic			536



Santos		        361



SuperSport		327



Wanderers		273



Wits University	        240



Classic 		229



Hellenic		201