The much-anticipated Telkom Knockout Cup will be played at the iconic Orlando Stadium in Soweto on 29 November.
This was announced by the Premier Soccer League’s football manager, Derek Blackensee, at a press conference at the league’s offices in Parktown. He said the league, in consultation with its sponsors, Telkom, had decided to stage the final at Orlando Stadium.
Players from both teams wasted no time laying claim to the trophy. Platinum Stars’ Vuyo Mere said he was confident his team would defend the trophy they won last year.
“I am certain, though no one gives us a chance [just like] they did in all the rounds of the competition, that we are going to emerge champions again after 90 minutes on 29 November.”
Mere said few people thought they could win against a rampant Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns, but they prevailed on both occasions. “Equally, no one is giving us a chance again, against a resurgent SuperSport United under the tutelage of coach Gordon Ingesund. But I am confident we’re going to defend this trophy come 29 November. We shall be crowned champions when the final whistle is blown on that day,” said a confident Mere, whose sentiments were echoed by his counterpart at United.
“My smart money is on SuperSport United lifting this trophy which has eluded us for a number of years,” said skipper for the day, Clinton Daniels, on whose arm the captain’s armband will be worn as it rotates between him and colleague Thabo September.
September did well when the team walloped Orlando Pirates 2-0 in a first league match after the murder of their captain and that of Bafana Bafana, Senzo Meyiwa on 26 October at his girlfriend Kelly Khumalo’s parental home in Spruitview, Vosloorus.
On that day, United prevailed after putting on a scintillating performance which saw Alex boy, Lebogang Manyama being crowned man of the match for his brilliant game on the day, including putting one exciting volley past new keeper, Brighton Mhlongo.
The odds seem to favour SuperSport United but, as in the words of one sports writer, it’s not over until the 90 minutes have lapsed, and so, don’t write off Allan Freese’s boys yet.
