Johannesburg – Kaizer Chiefs hope the Carling Black Label Cup will produce a high-scoring match at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.
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“From my position as the goalkeeper, I would like to see a high-scoring game as long as I am not the one conceding those goals,” said Chiefs' captain Itumeleng Khune.
The tournament, in its fourth year, has produced just three goals in as many matches.
In the inaugural edition in 2011, Pirates won 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw.
The following year, the Buccaneers retained the title after a 5-4 penalty shootout when the match ended 1-1.
In 2013, Chiefs broke their duck, winning 1-0.
Chiefs' coach Stuart Baxter, who guided them to the first title, said players would have to dig deeper in their pursuit of silverware this season.
“Last season we did a lot of great things, but you can't call it a great season because we didn't win anything,” he said.
“The difference is five percent, maybe even less, but we have to find that difference. I told the players not to get frustrated, but to get better.”
The Amakhosi are looking for a pre-season boost with a victory over neighbours Pirates in the Cup.
“It's important because you want to win a derby and we need a bit of impetus ahead of the season,” said Baxter.
“You see a spring in the players' step during training. The pace picks up a little because we know it's more than a friendly game. It's a derby game.”
Buccaneers' coach Vladimir Vermezovic said he expected goal contributions from the entire squad, not only from his striking department.
“I would like to see all Pirates' players score this season, it should not only be up to the strikers. We need to have strength in the box and work hard on set-pieces as well.
“I hope this coming season will be better than our previous seasons in terms of scoring.”
Last year, Chiefs claimed the victory courtesy of a solitary strike from Lehlohonolo Majoro, who has since joined Pirates.
Majoro said he did not feel any extraordinary pressure now that he was in the Bucs' uniform.
“All I have to do is try to integrate with my new team-mates,” Majoro said.
“I'll take instructions from the coach and follow his orders. We have been working hard and we are looking to the season ahead.”
The starting teams, as selected by the fans, were confirmed midweek.
Chiefs: Itumeleng Khune, Siboniso Gaxa, Eric Mathoho, Tefu Mashamaite, Tsepo Masilela, George Lebese, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, George Maluleka, Willard Katsande, Kingston Nkhatha, Katlego Mphela.
Pirates: Senzo Meyiwa, Rooi Mahamutsa, Happy Jele, Siyabonga Sangweni, Thabo Matlaba, Tlou Segolela, Sifiso Myeni, Oupa Manyisa, Daine Klate, Kermit Erasmus, Lehlohonolo Majoro. – Sapa
Source : iol.co.za
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