“We have until Friday to prepare for this match,” says Steve Komphela ahead of the Telkom Knockout Last 16 clash against Martitzburg United on Saturday, 22 October (kick-off is at 20:15). “Maritzburg are always a difficult team to face. The knockout competitions are all or nothing. We know the profile of their coach, Ernst Middendorp.”

The Kaizer Chiefs coach spoke at the Telkom Knockout press conference this afternoon at the PSL headquarters.

“We wish to reach the final once again but this time we must win the trophy,” Komphela comments, referring to last season’s lost Telkom Knockout final against Mamelodi Sundowns. “Reaching the final is a good indicator, but at Chiefs trophies matter most.”

In terms of the side enjoying a good run lately, Komphela reacts: “We hope to continue with the momentum.”

At the conference the Amakhosi coach was flanked by his player, George Lebese, whom he described as an exceptional player with great talent, he says: “An injury free Lebese gives you a good game and he brings goals as well.”

“A knockout competition is do or die,” continues Komphela. “In the league you can have a second chance, knowing that you have thirty games to play. We know Maritzburg will not come here and lose against us again. They are definitely working hard to turn the tables and outmuscle us.”

Chiefs already beat Maritzburg United in the Absa Premiership this season.

“It is down to team work,” reacts Komphela when probed about his team and the latest form guide, “and a clear understanding of what we want to achieve. Everybody is playing their part. There has always been a healthy competition in the team for places, even last season.”

George Maluleka was sent off in the last game and will miss the Maritzburg match.

“We still have Enocent Mkhabela waiting to make his Chiefs debut for us,” Komphela comments. “Keagan Buchanan has returned from long term injury and is also looking at an opportunity to play in a competitive match. Lucky Baloyi is also ready to play a role when called upon. It is sad that Maluleka got a red card when he was playing a blinder in the middle of the park.”

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