Usuthu revel at derby matches
AmaZulu have one mission – to stay in the Premiership
Playing derby games back-toback is what AmaZulu need to settle well in the Absa Premiership.
This is the view of Usuthu coach Cavin Johnson following their 1-1 stalemate against Maritzburg United on Tuesday, heading into another KwaZulu-Natal derby against Lamontville Golden Arrows at Princess Magogo Stadium on Sunday (3.30pm).
AmaZulu came from behind to salvage a draw, thanks to Mhlengi Cele who cancelled out Michael Morton’s own goal at King Zwelithini Stadium. “This is good for us [to play back-to-back derbies] because it will help us settle in well and be familiar with the environment of the Premiership,” said Johnson.
“I like derbies because they give players extra motivation. They [derbies] are also about bragging rights and we need that spirit from our players.”
Usuthu have collected four points from three opening fixtures, and their 58-year-old mentor believes they can build on that to be competitive.
“We are improving gradually. We are the new team in the league and we will get there slowly, we need to play more games. We must try to build from this start and be a competitive team that will remain in the Premiership at the end of the season.”
The former Platinum Stars tactician handed veteran striker Siyabonga Nomvethe his first start of the season. He played the entire 90 minutes, which left Johnson thrilled.
“He did very well. He needs to get used to top-flight football again, but I was impressed with his contribution. I hope he recovers for the next game because it was his first 90 minutes,” stated Johnson.