Posted in News, Youth Academy on Apr 27, 2018.
“We work together as coaches at the club,” Govinder comments. “We use the same philosophy of coaching, so we won’t change the approach going into this match. Our game is not a secret, as we plan to dominate the opponent right from the start.”
Chiefs’ reserve side has been scoring goals – ten in three Shield games and only conceding three in the process.
“We are working hard to build a strong winning mentality and bring positive energy,” continues Govinder. “I told the guys that they should not think of the semis as different from the other matches. They must go out there and do their best to win.”
Chiefs’ coach feels confident ahead of the Saturday’s game even though, as he says, “We lost 4-1 in the MultiChoice Diski Challenge. But that was different as they used several players over the age of 23, guys who were part of their first team squad. However, now with only players under the age of 23 participating in the Shield, I don't think they have the same quality as us.”
Nkosingiphile Ngcobo will miss the match due to having accumulated four bookings. “We will miss Ngcobo,” Govinder admits. “It is a blow - he is the captain and engine of the team, but the players have accepted it as a challenge. Given Thibedi will be important in Ngcobo’s absence.”
“The mood in the camp is positive," Govinder concludes. “The lads want to be in the final. I like their attitude and the winning mentality. We have already gone far in the competition and can’t drop it at this stage. “
The match between the Chiefs and Celtic is scheduled to take place at Clermont’s Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium on Saturday (kick-off is at 12:00).