Xulu doesn’t hold any grudges against Amakhosi
JOHANNESBURG: Kaizer Chiefs face yet another daunting task of getting maximum points at a venue they usually struggle to emerge victorious from.
Today Amakhosi face Maritzburg United at Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg.
Amakhosi have visited the venue eight times in the PSL and have only been successful on three occasions, while the Team of Choice are among the early pace setters this season after picking up eight points in four league outings.
Maritzburg have enjoyed wins against Platinum Stars and Ajax Cape Town, while they’ve drawn two matches against AmaZulu and Orlando Pirates.
On other hands, Amakhosi have struggled this season. They have registered only one win against Cape Town City at Cape Town Stadium last week.
Today Amakhosi are facing the daunting task of registering their second victory this season at a venue where they’ve stumbled so many times in the past. The likes of Gustavo Paez and Siphiwe Tshabalala will have to get the better of their former teammate Siyanda Xulu, who is now in the colours of Maritzburg.
He mentioned that he doesn’t hold any grudges against Chiefs after failing to make an impact at Amakhosi, having arrived in 2015 with huge expectations.
“I don’t think I should be to emotional about playing against Chiefs. It will be not the first time I face my former side. All that is important for me is make sure that I am ready for the encounter,” Xulu explained.
“History has shown that players who always come out with an intention of proving the point against their former (team) tend to commit blunders and I don’t want to add to that stats. I’m matured and experienced enough to face this situation.”
Xulu has been instrumental for the Team of Choice in the centre of defence. He has played a pivotal role in helping them keep three clean sheets this season.
“The reason I signed for Maritzburg United was to revive my career in South Africa and improve as a player. It was important to take a brave decision by considering my situation. It won’t help me to pay too much attention about my stay at Chiefs.
“Yes I agree it will not be a normal game since I’m facing my friends. We will be facing a team that is improving. Their confidence is back now. They will be be dangerous but we have to show that we are playing at home,” Xulu said.