‘We can’t wait for others to score before we wake up’
CAPE TOWN CITY coach Benni McCarthy is clear about the main problem that’s concerning him as he prepares his team to take on Golden Arrows at the Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu, near Durban, tomorrow night (kick-off 8.15pm).
“We have to change our attitude,” said the City coach. “We cannot wait for the other team to score before we wake up. We have to go at it from the first whistle. We have to get back to the spirit and attitude we had before the international break. We must make sure that we have that never-say-die approach, the commitment, the temperament and the desire to always play with heart.
After tackling log leaders Baroka FC earlier this week, City now have another loftily-placed opponent to negotiate in Durban. City and Baroka played to a 1-1 draw at the Cape Town Stadium on Tuesday – and, as it stands now, the Polokwane side continues to top the PSL standings with 18 points, followed by Arrows and City on 16 points. As such, as the Capetonians prepare for what should be tough encounter, there is certainly a great deal to play for.
McCarthy cut a frustrated figure during the first half against Baroka on Tuesday. His team looked lethargic and they were fortunate not to concede during that period. Fortunately, they found their feet in the second half and, in the end, should really have gone on to win
“Against Baroka, we were disjointed in the first half. It was only after they scored that there seemed to be extra energy, players were bombing forward and were making better decisions. We need to do that sooner, not wait for the opposition to wake us up.”
McCarthy is also fully aware of how respected Arrows have become under coach Clinton Larsen. While, in the past, the Durban club has always been there or thereabouts, without really challenging for anything, under Larsen, the former Manning Rangers and Orlando Pirates midfielder, they have become a team to watch. Rest assured, Arrows’ elevated position on the log is no fluke; they have earned every accolade that has come their way. And that is why the City coach is not disputing how good the opposition is – and he has, in fact, warned his men of the dangers of starting slowly again.
“Arrows are similar to Baroka, in that they are on the move all the time,” said McCarthy. They’re difficult to play against. But they are different in that they will punish us if we perform in the same way we did in the first half against Baroka. We have to change, we have to start games better.”