Doc answers your questions…
Please don’t forget to send your questions to editor@soccerladuma.co.za for now, until further notice. Andile Xhego is asking for my Soweto Derby predictions. Honestly, it is very difficult to predict the derby these days. As much as I know the derby is a different game, where form doesn’t count for anything, it is really difficult to tell where this one will go. I’m sure you’ve read my comment on the derby already.
Oupa Sam wants to know who the supporters should keep an eye out for from both teams in the Soweto Derby. My answer to the first question applies to your question, Oupa.
Thando Zethu, the Soweto Derby meant everything to me. We are talking about two giants of South African football going at it. There’s rich history and rivalry in this game and for any player signed, by these two teams, you get told what the derby means and the importance of getting max imum points in it. This is one game neither side wants to lose, so whenever I played in the derby, I know it is a nerve-wracking game, I always enjoyed it. The big stage always brought out the best in me.
Ntobeko Mzana wants to know if the legends get a chance to speak to the players ahead of the derby and whether I will be at the stadium to support the boys. Well, what a good question! Most teams always cherish and keep their supporters close to them, while others don’t. Some teams only need and acknowledge their legends when it suits them. I find it very strange for a person like you, Ntobeko, who is so far from the ‘action’, to ask that question. I know where it is coming from because people can see that most of the legends are detached from their teams. This is where they (teams) make a mistake because how do these boys get inspiration and where do they get it from if those who played before them are being sidelined and kept away from them? In Europe, most legends are still within the structures of their teams. It is the same thing with our national team. I’ve never heard any coach call those who played before to come and share their Afcon or World Cup ex periences with the current crop. They don’t care and they don’t understand the importance of this ex ercise. What a good question, once again. Sometimes people think supporters are just about screaming and shouting at the stadium – no, no, no. Supporters don’t just go to praise the players and all that, they are very smart and can see things from far. They know their story and you’ve got to respect them.