Erick ‘Tower’ Mathoho has expressed optimism ahead of the Amakhosi trip to the mountainous Qwaqwa in the Free State Province. Chiefs will be travelling to Qwaqwa inspired to play against the Phuthaditjhaba based outfit, Free State Stars on Saturday, 9 August 2014. The kickoff for the most anticipated clash is at 15:00 at the Charles Mopeli Stadium.

‘Tower’ said they are aware that the trip will not be an easy one. He said, “Playing against Stars is always a tough game. They are always difficult to crack, especially in their own backyard. They have always been a strong team to play against. Like most of the teams they bring their A-game when they play against us. I recall they stole a point from us and we lost 2 points at the end of last season, which contributed to our loss of the league title and they gained crucial points to survive relegation that haunted them for the better part of last season.”

‘Tower’ was substituted due to an injury in the MTN 8 quarterfinals when Chiefs brushed aside Black Aces. Speaking after the morning training session on Thursday, ‘Tower’ said, “I had a cut on my lip and felt dizzy afterwards, but I am ok and fit and available when called upon to make a contribution in the field of play this Saturday.”

About the first game of the season in the 2014/15 Absa Premiership, ‘Tower’ said, “The first game is important to everyone. Every team would like to have a good start to the season. Every point will count at the end of the season, so we are going all out to have a good starting point at the expense of Free State Stars.”