Downs’ reserves eye Shield Cup

Chiefs last hurdle on way to clinching the trophy

The recent success story of Mamelodi Sundowns’ senior team drives the club’s reserve side to emulate their big brothers, according to the Brazilians’ MultiChoice Diski Challenge (MDC) coach David Notoane.

The young Brazilians aim to win the inaugural MultiChoice Diski Shield Cup, but on their way is the Kaizer Chiefs juniors who they meet in the final at Makhulong Stadium tomorrow (3pm).

Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane would also be eager to make up for their first team’s struggles to appease the Amakhosi supporters.

Sundowns beat MDC champions Lamontville Golden Arrows (1-0) while Chiefs outshone Bloemfontein Celtic (20) last weekend to book their spots in the decider.

“The success of the first team gives us motivation and inspiration to go and complete our mission on Saturday [tomorrow]. At Sundowns, we are a winning family. We have a winning mentality in all our structures,” Notoane said.

“We want to win the Diski Shield because we want to continue with our winning tradition at this club.

“The boys are determined to make history by winning this cup in its first season.”

However, Notoane expects Chiefs to be a hard nut to crack, feeling Chiefs mentor, Zwane, has finally found good combinations.

“I watched their game against Celtic and I realised that we will have to be at our best to beat them. Coach Arthur [Zwane] has improved the team and they have found good combinations. We know that they are hungry but we also need this cup badly.”

The champions will claim R150 000 but the prize money will be donated towards a community initiative.

Chiefs chose Emshukantambo High School in Soweto, while Sundowns will play for Mamelodi High School.