Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Trump cards – Men who will decide the derby
BOTH Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are effectively out of the league title race, but a win for either of them at Orlando Stadium today may well be the tonic for their wounded pride.
Soccer writers Mihlali Baleka and Herman Gibbs look at the three trump cards from each side in today’s derby.
Bandile Shandu – Wing-back
Shandu has had a great start to life at Pirates since his move from Maritzburg. He has settled in the wing-back role, scoring goals in the process. He’s been so good that he is tipped for a spot in the Bafana Bafana set-up.
His primary role is to defend but if he continues to get into the right places, that could go a long way in ensuring victory.
Kwame Peprah – Striker
Peprah attracted a lot of fanfare during his first cameos. But he failed to live up to that lofty billing from the outset. However, since he’s started to score lately, he’ll relish his first goal in his second appearance in the derby. Peprah has to guard against being selfish in his hunger for goals.
Kabelo Dlamini – Winger-cum-striker
Dlamini is fast becoming one of Pirates’ go-to forwards. His left foot has mesmerised a lot of defenders this campaign. He can also chip in with goals from open play or set pieces.
It’s every player’s dream to soar in the derby. And with Gabadinho Mhango still overlooked by the technical
team, this is an ideal time for Dlamini to shine. But Dlamini will have to play the match and not the occasion.
Keagan Dolly – forward
After spending five seasons with French club Montpellier it may be argued that the 29-year-old Keagan Dolly is past his prime. When he arrived at Chiefs last season he made it clear that he wants to win trophies. He has already made some cameo appearances this season and has had a few assists. Last week he showed touches of brilliance and probably his biggest asset is his deft touches with supporting runners who are close by. Given half a chance he will prise open gaps in the opposition defence. He can change the game in a flash with his creativity and vision.
Khama Billiat – striker
Last week, the Zimbabwean served notice of his potency in front of the opposition goals when he rifled home from a tight angle. There has been a feeling that Chiefs are not bringing the best out of him by not clearly defining his role. His excellent work rate comes to the fore when the team attacks around the fringes of the opposition goalmouth. The derby may just be the platform to bring the potent Billiat to the fore.
Eric Mathoho – defender
Mathoho will be tasked with manning Chiefs’ central defence. He will have to deal with Pirates danger man Thembinkosi Lorch, if he plays. Mathoho reads the game well and that allows him to make interceptions, which has been one of his strong points.