Lakay’s looking for missing link
Lyle Lakay has the same hunger as Mamelodi Sundowns to win the MTN8 as it remains the only trophy missing in Masandawana’s collection of silverware in recent years.
Lakay joined the Brazilians with recollections of losing last season’s MTN8 final to SuperSport United when he was still employed by Cape Town City, while Downs collected silver medals two seasons ago against Bidvest Wits.
Sundowns are at home to Golden Arrows in the quarterfinals this afternoon at Lucas Moripe Stadium.
“This is the one that is missing, I played in the final against SuperSport United and I also missed out. It is something I would also like to win,” said Lakay.
“The two games we played are leading up to today’s game and we are going to it with confidence and we just need to focus on what to do I think we can come out victorious and focus on the next round and take it game by game,” he added.
Having played Abafana Bes’thende numerous times in the colors of Matsatsantsa a Pitori, Bloemfontein Celtic and City, Lakay expects Clinton Larsen’s men to have a defensive approach.
“We all know that Golden Arrows usually sit back, they are one of the best teams on the counter with their speed and that’s one thing that we need to look out for.”
Lakay has played in both Downs’ league games against Kaizer Chiefs and Polokwane City, and hopes to cement his place in Pitso Mosimane’s team.
“I need to break into the starting line-up and contribute to the team. If I do well personally it would contribute to the team winning things because when you end your career you want to say I have won trophies. My main focus is just breaking into the team and the personal glory and success will come afterwards,” he said.
He did, however, admit that he faces stern competition from seasoned campaigner Tebogo Langerman.
“The season is long and I will share the load with Langerman and Musa if they are going to play him at leftback because he was brought in as a left centreback. There are many games in quick succession, during the week and over the weekend.”