Vries welcomes rivalry with world-famous Oscar
Goalkeeper ready to face Arrows
Baroka’s first choice goalkeeper Virgil Vries acknowledges that his competitor, Fifa Puskas award nominee Oscarine Masuluke, will do anything to reclaim his spot.
Vries, however, feels the goalkeeping rivalry is healthy for the log leaders.
The 28-year-old joined Baroka at the start of the season after Maritzburg United decided against renewing his contract. His arrival at the Limpopo-based club saw Masuluke, 24, drop to the bench.
The Namibian shot-stopper has started all seven games this season and is aware that Masuluke – a Fifa Puskas Award nominee – will not rest until he regains his place.
“I did not walk straight into the starting line-up, but it was through my hard work that I am playing regularly. We [him and Masuluke] always encourage each other. He is working hard to play again, but I am not feeling threatened because the team comes first, that competition helps us to perform better,’’ Vries told Sowetan.
Heading into their crucial clash with second-placed Lamontville Golden Arrows tomorrow at Peter Mokaba Stadium (7.30pm), Vries, who previously played for Arrows, reckons this encounter will be their toughest test thus far.
“Both of us [Baroka and Arrows] have not lost a [PSL] game so far and that tells you how big this game is. Arrows are a dangerous team that does not rely on individuals but the whole team to make a difference.”
Vries is one of the experienced players Baroka brought in at the start of the season alongside Gift Motupa and Siphelele Ntshangase.