“Pressure is everywhere, no matter where you are on the log,” says Kaizer Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter ahead of the Absa Premiership resuming this week. “The key to success will be in our mental readiness.”

Baxter was speaking at a PSL Press Conference organised to generate excitement ahead of the second half of the season.

“Whether we lead with five, ten or fifteen points,” continues the Amakhosi coach, “it doesn’t matter much, what matters are the performances on the field of play.”

The Amakhosi are currently leading the league standing by 46 points from 18 matches. Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns follow with 31 points from 17 outings. Chiefs and Sundowns are also the two teams that represent South Africa in the CAF Champions League this season.

“This time we will approach things differently in terms of how we prepare and recuperate,” Baxter points out, referring to last season when the Brazilians eventually overtook the Amakhosi to take the league title. “Things change when you include long distance travelling in different conditions. However, we won’t feel sorry for ourselves, we have to be ready. Hopefully the squad will remain fresh and healthy.”

“At times it is tougher to be successful than not being successful. We will apply the mental preparation to the last degree.”

“The league will be interesting to follow,” concludes Baxter. “The fans will check how all the teams get out of the blocks at the restart. For us, Celtic will be tough - as always. Buoyant by their passionate home supporter’s base, this promises to be an entertaining game to watch.”

Chiefs restart their league fixtures with a trip to Bloemfontein Celtic on Wednesday night. Kick-off is at 19:30, at the Free State Stadium.