Sangweni, Sandilands unfazed by derby bow
Family ties, past experience help to settle nerves
Two of Orlando Pirates’ new signings are not fazed by the prospect of playing in the Carling Black Label Cup clash against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday (3.30pm).
You would expect the newcomers to be worried about how they are going to contribute in a match the magnitude of the Soweto derby, especially because it’s sold out.
However, Bucs’ new boys Thamsanqa Sangweni and Wayne Sandilands didn’t appear fazed when speaking about the upcoming clash.
“Akumayelana nami kumayelana ne-team [It is not about me but it is about the team]. Nami ngingedwa ngeke ngenze lutho [I cannot help the team alone],” said Sangweni yesterday. “It takes the team’s effort to achieve good things.”
His big brother Siyabonga is a former Bucs defender and he believes this will stand him in good stead on Saturday.
“If I get a chance on Saturday I will do what the fans expect me to do. We talk a lot with Siyabonga. He always tells me about what it is like to play for Pirates and what I must expect in derbies,” he said.
Sandilands, like Sangweni, also appeared ready for the big clash and said he hoped he can do his best should the fans vote him into the team.
“It’s a huge game and obviously as a player that has never experienced it, you always heard about it and watched it,” Sandilands commented.
“To actually be a part of it – well, if I’m a part of it – will be great. I don’t know the feeling that comes with playing in the derby, but I have been involved in the [CAF] Champions League final [while playing for