Chiefs coach expects tough clash against Arrows

Ernst Middendorp has managed to overcome one challenge at Kaizer Chiefs but now he has more coming as he has to contain the excitement of reaching the Nedbank Cup final and ensure his team focus on their last four Absa Premiership matches.

Amakhosi have four games to play before the much anticipated Ke Yona final appearance at Moses Mabhida Stadium on May 18 but the mood around the team is already escalated as supporters anticipate the end of their long period of suffering without a trophy.

“We will have to quickly recoup and regroup and be ready for Tuesday’s match,” said Middendorp of their league match against Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium tonight.

Amakhosi are seventh on the standings and should they fail to collect points in remaining games, they run the risk of finishing outside of the top eight, something that would bring further shame upon the club known for their illustrious history.

“The Arrows match will be another tough one but we will be prepared and ready to get the three points,” promised Middendorp.

READ: Middendorp hails ‘fantastic’ Chiefs after Chippa win

Arrows will come to FNB Stadium looking for some solace after they were knocked out of the Nedbank Cup by minnows TS Galaxy who beat them 3-1 in their own back yard. And technically, Abafana Bes’sthende are not safe from relegation which will give them more impetus to want to eke a result at Amakhosi’s expense.

Middendorp will, however be happy, with a top drawer performance similar to the one his side gave against Chippa United in the Nedbank Cup semi-final at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Saturday night.

It looked like the Glamour Boys were headed for another disappointment when with less than 15 minutes left, they were trailing the Chilli Boys 2-1.

But quick goals from Aro Adrianarimanana, Bernard Parker and Khama Billiat added to Dumisani Zuma’s opener to pave way to the final.

“We nearly gave it away,” admitted Middendorp. “But we showed character and got the result we were looking for. I am happy with the result. All the players came to the party.

“We scored great goals from different players which augurs well for the team.”

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