City gunning for MTN8 semifinal victory over Wits

The Citizens will be motivated ahead of this encounter having claimed a 1-0 win over the Absa Premiership and Wafa Wafa champions, Wits, last week.

Coach Benny McCarthy has to push his troops to remain disciplined to ensure they claim their second victory over the Johannesburg-based side.

City booked a spot in the semifinals after beating Polokwane City in the previous round, but are fresh from a 3-1 win over Platinum Stars in their second league match on Wednesday at home.

Looking at the Clever Boys, coach Gavin Hunt is also pushing for their successful defence of the MTN8.

Wits managed to open their account in the competition with a win over Golden Arrows via penalties at home, but lost to City in their league opener.

Coach Hunt will now have to avoid their second loss against Cape Town Cty considering the fact that they also drew 2-2 on Wednesday against Free State Stars away in the league.

McCarthy says he is raring to go.

“Listen, for me, it’s from Monday to Friday. I come to work because I want to enjoy the Saturdays, the fight, a win,” said McCarthy.

“And that’s why I decided I want to get involved. Because, yeah, it gives me the greatest pleasure when you work, have a good week ahead and you round the week off and the guys put in the performance and you get a positive result.

“For me, it’s all about winning and that’s all they get to hear. You know, because I want them to know that winning is not a chore it must be a habit.

“When you walk out that dressing room you walk out because you want to win. So, they know when it comes to that it’s about winning.

“I don’t feel the pressure because it’s just a game of football and I think if we prepare ourselves well, as long as they give me 100 percent effort, the commitment and they leave everything out there irrespective of the result I’m happy with that.

“And so far it’s been three wins out three, so yeah, I’m more excited.”

Key players for City will be Shu-Aib Walters and Roland Putche.

Walters is undoubtedly one of the underrated goalkeepers in the country and has cemented his place in the side while Putsche, the tough as steel midfielder, has made a huge contribution to the Mother City club in their maiden season in the top flight.

For Wits, they will look to Thulani Hlatshwayo and James Keene.

Bafana Bafana skipper Hlatshwayo was the man as Wits claimed the double last season. The big defender will want to score vital goals for the club once again this season and defend their trophy.

Keene’s ability to run at defenders will be a tough assignment for the hosts. He is dangerous up-front and his height, eye for goal as well as ambition will help the Clever Boys.