“First and foremost I would like to thank God,” expresses Hendrick Ekstein. Ekstein, was promoted to the first team from Chiefs Development in the last season.

The nimble footed Bekkersdal born midfielder was the star in the Chiefs Reserve Side playing in the Multichoice Diski Challenge last season. Ekstein scooped ‘Man of the Match’ awards one after another during the Diski Challenge.

“I thank my teammates and the technical team for the support,” comments Ekstein.

Ekstein made occasional appearances during the Championship winning season under former coach Stuart Baxter.

Ekstein came on as second half (84th) substitute replacing George Lebese. Ekstein added the icing on the cake with his side’s fifth goal in the dying seconds of the 5 – 3 win over Maritzburg United to send Chiefs into the semifinals of the MTN8.

“I am happy to have scored,” comments Ekstein. “Walking through the tunnel before kick-off, I told myself that given a chance I will score.”

Ekstein hopes to continue rattling the net going forward in his career, “I am learning all the time. With more chances coming I want to score more goals.”

Ekstein is optimistic and looking forward to the Absa Premiership league opener against Chippa United on Women’s Day, 9 August. Kick-off at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is at 15:00.

Tickets for the match are sold at ticketpro (www.ticketpro.co.za) for R40. Ticketpro have affiliates at various outlets in the Eastern Cape, Edgars, Edgars Active, Jet, JetMart & CAN. Select Postnet outlets in the Eastern Cape as well as Post Offices in the Eastern Cape.

There are ticketpro independents as well; including at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium and EP Cricket Ticket Office.

For more info fans can call ticketpro offices at 0414088986/87.