Posted in News, Team News on Apr 14, 2017.
“Chippa have not been consistent this season,” comments Mayo, who was briefly assistant coach at the Chilly Boys in 2014. “For example, they recently beat Polokwane City in the Nedbank Cup, before drawing to them in a league clash a few days later. However, they have a tendency to do well against the so-called big teams.”
Chiefs lost the away match 3-1 to Chippa on 3 December 2016. Since, however, the Glamour Boys have been unbeaten in 11 league encounters (seven wins and four draws).
Amakhosi are presently in third spot with 42 points from 23 games on the Absa Premiership log, while the Chilli Boys are down in 12th position with 24 points from 23 matches.
“Chippa are usually not good travellers,” Mayo points out. And he’s correct - the Port Elizabeth-based side have only collected six points from eleven league fixtures on the road. Chiefs, on the other hand, have gained 24 points from 12 games at home (six wins, six draws).
“But again,” the former Glamour Boy adds, “Chippa have this habit of rising to the occasion.” Then, he says with a chuckle: “I am not sure if they like or hate Chiefs, but the team must be aware it won’t be easy on Saturday.”
He’s happy about Amakhosi’s good run. “Especially the defence is really doing well. I am also happy that coach Steve Komphela doesn’t change too much defensively. That way it’s easy to create good partnerships and understanding between the defenders.”
Mayo is in particular captivated with Lorenzo Gordinho’s form this season: “He improves with each and every game. Lorenzo has been very consistent, which is great to see.”
He also singles out Gustavo Páez, Joseph Molangoane and George Lebese. “The new striker has been very, very good. I would like to see Gustavo getting a chance to start now that Bernard Parker is suspended for the Chippa game. Joseph has really impressed me. He’s on top of his game. I do miss Lebese, however. He always delivers when getting a run. George remains one of my favourite Chiefs players.”
The Glamour Boys are presently title contenders. Mayo gives some advice: “There are seven league matches left. The players must approach every game as a cup final.”
Amakhosi host Chippa in an Absa Premiership on Saturday, 15 April 2017. Mayo concludes: “I will definitely be watching the game. I am looking forward to it.”
Kaizer Chiefs v Chippa United
Saturday, 15 April 2017
Mbombela Stadium
Kick-off at 18:00
Tickets are available at Computicket: R50