Coach Masutha expects a classic

WE’LL ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE, HE SAYS

Black Leopards coach Joel Masutha is anticipating a humdinger when they visit Kaizer Chiefs for a Telkom Knockout first-round match in just over a week.

Lidoda Duvha were dealt what looks a heavy hand when they were drawn against Amakhosi in their first cup appearance since returning to the top flight.

But Masutha is not worried, saying the games between the two sides have always produced epic performances that linger long in the minds of the supporters.

“It is a tough draw for both,” Masutha told The Citizen after the draw. “Everyone expects Chiefs to win and that on its own brings pressure to both teams – for us to surprise and tip the scales and for them to make good on the wide expectation,” he added.

For Leopards, a defeat in this game will not be a train smash as their main goal this season is to settle and ensure they are nowhere near the relegation places towards the end of the season. A good cup run would be a bonus.

“We will go out there and try and enjoy the moment. Yes, we do want to win and we will go there wanting to win but the main thing will be for our players to enjoy the experience and give their all against a team who play very good football. The game will be open and no one will park the bus.

“Chiefs are a household name and every player wants to shine against them. It’s always a humdinger when we play them. We will give them a game that people will be talking about for a long time to come,” said Masutha.

It is however a totally different story for Chiefs who have not lifted a trophy in the past three years and that weights heavy on coach Giovanni Solinas’ shoulders although he tries to hide it. But he understands the expectations.

“Chiefs compete to win all the trophies. But the competition is difficult and very strong and that makes it difficult to win everything. We will try fighting to win because that is what is expected at Chiefs. We will do it for our fans.

“I am happy with my team. The guys work hard. I am optimistic about the future,” said Solinas.

Picture: Gallo Images FRIENDS FOR NOW. Black Leopards coach Joel Masutha (left) is relishing the chance of taking on Giovanni Solinas and Chiefs in the first round of the Telkom Knockout.