Chippa to give Sisa much to crow about

Chippa United boss Siviwe Mpengesi is excited about returning to Sisa Dukashe Stadium where his side will host Black Leopards in a PSL encounter on Saturday.

Mpengesi said the Mdantsane NU2 venue was their slaughterhouse and having choked during their past two games since the league started, they were positive of stealing three points at the only pitch they’ve never lost a game at.

The Chilli Boys suffered two defeats – in their opening game they lost 2-0 to Bloemfontein Celtic and by an odd goal to Orlando Pirates.

This while Leopards managed to collect four points after beating Polokwane City 1-0, and playing a 2-2 draw against fellow newcomers Highlands Park. “We started badly in the league with two losses, but we think playing at Mdantsane will give the boys the spirit they need to win. They are ready for this game and I’ve seen them preparing. They were looking hungry as usual, especially since we coming to Mdantsane,” said Mpengesi.

He said their second half performance during their loss against Pirates last week was a good sign that meant they would bounce back.

“During that second half we really played well, and the coach is building on that performance. We saw some Dan [“Dance” Malesela] factor there and the boys promised they would continue with that fighting spirit when we meet Leopards at Sisa.

“We’re not panicking because some of the guys are still new and experience has taught us you can’t just go for drastic decisions. It’s still early days in the season because that might cause further delays and that can even punish the guys and it doesn’t assist your project.”

Mpengesi conceded that facing a newly promoted Lidoda Duvha would be tough, but he said their experience of five seasons in top-flight football had to be evident on the pitch.

“They have just been promoted and they are still fresh and we know the way they started in the PSL, they might have a good first round.

“And any club from [National First Division] would have wished to start like them.”

Mpengesi said this game was not only for football lovers in East London, but also for the wider region.