Chiefs look to start on a high

Steve Komphela’s team are under pressure to produce the goods this season and having already bombed out of the MTN8 the pressure has already begun.

But a win at Celtic could give the team some room to breathe as the supporters were impressed with performance against SuperSport United although disappointed that the team could not win the match.

One of the players Komphela has brought into the side as he looks for a better outing is Bongolethu Jayiya who joined from Cape Town City in June.

“It has always been my dream. I have loved this team since I was five years old. Even when I played against them there was always that love and a wish to switch sides,” said Jayiya this week.

Jayiya said what he had learnt in the short time at Naturena is that one always has to give 100% for the team and pledged to give his all.

“I am loving every moment in the team,” he said. “When you are out there (on the field) you have to do your best. The plan is to do the simple things because they bring success. Follow the coach’s instruction and do your best and play for the brand,” said the 27-year-old former Bidvest Wits attacking midfielder.

Phunya Selesele will have watched Amakhosi against Matsatsantsa and got a better understanding of their play. Celtic have also declined in the past few seasons and survived relegation on the final day last season.

The Free State side have signed a new coach in Veselin Jelusic who is tasked with resuscitating the team.

“I have been in Africa for 20 years. I have coached a few teams in Angola and Botswana. I have some experience in South African football having played a few friendly games here when I was Botswana coach,” said Jelusic.

Celtic also roped in former Chiefs midfielder Lucky Baloyi and striker Ndumiso Mabena from Platinum Stars.