Final spot still on the mind of United boss

“It is not over, we still have a big opportunity to go into the final.” Those were the immediate thoughts of SuperSport United coach Kaitano Tembo (above) when Matsatsantsa surrendered a lead to draw 1-1 with Mamelodi Sundowns in their MTN8 semifinal, first leg on Sunday.

Thamsanqa Gabuza opened the scoring for SuperSport but the home side barely had time to celebrate as Gaston Sirino scored a vital away goal.

“We knew it was going to be difficult and I am really happy because the guys played well. If you look at where we are now than when we played the first game against Sundowns in the league (Sundowns won 2-0 ) and this one, there is big improvement and we are a team that has been improving gradually and I am happy with that,” said Tembo.

One of SuperSport’s star performers was Sipho Mbule, who looks rejuvenated this season. His football is eye-catching but Tembo wants more from the 21-yearold attacker.

“I am happy with his progress, he just needs to stay humble and keep working. There is still a lot of work he needs to do ... he needs to be more of an effective player,” Tembo said.

“When we speak about an effective player we are speaking of scoring ... when we play two number 10s, him and Teboho Mokoena, they need to chip in with goals because they are attacking players. Teboho scored a few goals last season and I expect Sipho to create and score goals. He needs to continue working hard – if he slows down he will find himself on the bench,” said Tembo.

He added: “Sipho is a different kind of a player and when he does not have the ball he is not effective. Teams are aware of his quality and when they start pressing him he has to start working hard ... he needs to find space to play.”

I am happy with his progress, he just needs to stay humble and keep working.