Four Kaizer Chiefs players have been voted into the Carling All-Stars XI to face Carling Knockout winners, Orlando Pirates at the Moses Mabhida stadium on Saturday.

In a national poll of fans, Brandon Petersen, Naledi Hlongwane, Thulani Mabaso and Mfundo Vilakazi were elected into the starting line-up for what is expected to be a festive occasion in Durban on the weekend.

Speaking exclusively to www.kaizerchiefs.com, Amakhosi skipper Petersen shares his thoughts on the inclusion of himself and his young teammates in the Carling All-Stars.

“Firstly, I was very disappointed that we exited the Carling Knockout early. It is a trophy that we obviously wanted to fight for and win,” he admits, adding, “but I think the Carling All-Stars is a great initiative. In the past, it has helped, especially the younger players taking that step up, like last year, some of our Diski boys played and it helped them adjust to the Premiership.”

While Vilakazi has established himself in the Chiefs senior set-up after starring in the All-Stars game last season, Hlongwane and Mabaso are setting the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) alight again, after playing key roles in last season’s record-breaking DDC title success.

“I am looking forward to the game and excited to play alongside our young up and coming players,” says Petersen. “Also, our fans have supported us through everything and the players who were voted in are humbled. It is a privilege to be there and we want to thank them for their belief in us, and we will do our best to represent them.”

The erudite goalkeeper has a philosophical perspective on the team’s position at the midway point of the season, saying, “It’s the halfway point, and we’re fourth on the log with the second-least number of goals conceded, which I think bears testimony to the hard work we have put in. We placed a big emphasis on reducing the number of goals we let in last season. Hats off to the coaches and players for identifying the problems and working hard for a remedy, and it’s now paying off. I am happy with our form and where we are. When we resume, we must continue the effort to keep building on this foundation.”

Petersen concludes with a passionate appeal to the Amakhosi faithful to prioritise safety over the holiday season.

‘I want to wish everyone a happy holiday. Enjoy the time with loved ones and family. It’s the festive period, and we know things get a bit hectic at this time of year and I want everyone to be safe and have fun, but also be responsible.” he pleads, before addressing the Khosi Nation specifically, “To our faithful supporters, we look forward to seeing you again when we resume next year. Please be safe. We love you; we appreciate you, and thank you for all your love and support.”

Finally, he wished Bafana Bafana good fortune at the upcoming AFCON in Morocco: “To the pride of the nation, I wish you the best of luck. We are behind you guys. Go out there and show everyone what you can do.”