Lakay aiming for hero status

Wafa Wafa win would be belated homecoming gift

Cape Town City winger Lyle Lakay has extra motivation for wanting to win the MTN8 final, as victory will turn him into an instant hometown hero in Silvertown, Athlone.

Triumph in the R8-million Wafa Wafa cup would act as a belated homecoming celebration for the speedy dribbler.

Lakay, 26, returned home to the Mother City to join City in the off-season after spending six years with Bloemfontein Celtic.

City will face SuperSport United in the final showdown at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday (7pm).

The Capetonians are aiming for their second major trophy in their second year since formation after winning the Telkom Knockout last season.

“Playing at home for my family and community is a different feeling to being at another club,” Lakay told Sowetan.

“Obviously, I would love to put a smile on our fans faces here in Cape Town and do them proud. I wouldn’t want to let them down. I am enjoying my time at the team and it is evident from the way we started. I think everyone is having fun.”

City had a blistering start under coach Benni McCarthy that began with a five-match winning streak in all competitions.

In his assessment of his former employers SuperSport, Lakay said: “SuperSport are well organised. They have Jeremy Brockie upfront, they have Thuso [Phala] who is key and a good midfielder.”

Lakay also backed McCarthy to transmit his passion to the team.

“It’s a good feeling to play for a coach who is hungry and also a proven winner willing to fight for his players. We also have to show that very same fight and vigour.”