True grit is Bevan’s call

Sibongiseni Gumbi

Maritzburg United know they are up against it tomorrow night when they host Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs at the Harry Gwala Stadium, and Bevan Fransman (above) says only guts will see them through.

Under the guidance of Roger de Sa, the Team of Choice were unlucky to pick up just a point in the first Absa Premiership match of the year when Polokwane City equalised late to secure a 1-1 draw.

“We went to Polokwane with a clear plan and we executed it fairly well. We played good football, scored first and should have won.

“We lost out on full points through a penalty which I would not want to say much about because I think I have to see replays to see whether it was a valid call,” said the 33-year-old former Amakhosi defender.

On Maritzburg’s next challenge against his former team, Fransman admitted it is going to be a tough match where they will have to give their all to win it. Amakhosi will be on a high, having picked up from where they left off before the summer break with a compelling 3-1 win over Free State Stars on Tuesday night.

“We have set ourselves targets after the team narrowly survived relegation last season. We have set out to finish as high as we can and for that to happen we need to win games, especially at home.

“Chiefs are a good side and have quality players in all departments but we can match them, if not for quality but with our determination – our guts. We have to play our guts out. The guys have shown unbelievable commitment since the season started and that makes me believe we can achieve our target.”