Chippa train in Cape Town camp
CHIPPA United have locked down in training camp in Cape Town, preparing for what is expected to be a tough second leg of the Premier Soccer League starting next month.
Clubs usually bring on their “A” game in the second half of the season, as some teams will be fighting for the league trophy while others battle for survival.
The Chilli Boys left for Cape Town early this week as coach Dan Malesela aims to get his troops fit and ready for the year ahead.
Chippa communications manager Luthando Zibeko said yesterday: “The camp has been going well so far.
“We had planned to have four to five friendly games during our stay in Cape Town and have played two matches already.
“All the players [but one] are back at training.
“Not with the team is Vusumuzi Mncube, who is injured.”
Following the departure of Bongani “Drogba” Ndulula, goalkeeper Ayanda Masiko and former Kaizer Chiefs defender Simphiwe Mtsweni, Zibeko said there were no new developments in the team.
“Coach Dan is working with the players who are left in the team.
“What is comforting is that all the players who were injured last year are back and training.
“The team is looking positive and ready for the second leg of the season.”
Chippa will return to action on February 7 against struggling Baroka FC in a PSL league fixture at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The Port Elizabeth side are 11th on the log with 16 points from 14 games.
Only four points separate Chippa and relegation-threatened Baroka, who are 16th on the log.