Sparks are expected to fly at the UWC Stadium when the venue plays host to the first Cape Derby of the season.
This is when the Blues welcome newly-promoted Vasco da Gama at 15h00.
Acting Vasco coach, Justin Tantaal, is looking forward to the clash, saying the team that wants it more will emerge victorious.
“A derby is always an exciting encounter when two Cape Town teams meet. We know that UWC has a wealth of experience in the Hollywoodbets Super League with very experienced players. However, on match day it’s 11 vs 11 and depends on who wants the three points more,” said Tantaal.
“Preparations have been good and the mood in the camp is great leading up to our first cape derby as a team in the Hollywoodbets Super League. I feel that it’s going to be a great game of football.”
The home side come into this encounter full of confidence after their last gasp winner against a stubborn Coal City Wizards in Witbank on Wednesday (1 June 2022) with the influential Sibulele Holweni scoring in referee’s optional time.
The visitors, however will be a bit rusty, but also well-rested, after their match against City Lads Ladies was postponed.
But they also have an opportunity to impress Tantaal who will be on the bench for the first time after the club parted ways with coach Ashraf Calvert.
“Regarding the new role, nothing has changed – my responsibility is to coach and the title is not important to me. My job is to lead the team, make sure we are prepared and continue to build and improve our players and better our performances,” added Tantaal.
“We are a young squad and new to the league, so we are in the building phase. In football we need to be patient and when we become consistent as unit I think that we will do well in this league.”
With a match in hand, Vasco lie 13th on the table with six points.
They have registered only two wins in seven outings and played two draws while suffering five defeats.
Following five victories in eight matches, UWC is in third position with 17 points – four behind log leaders Sundowns.
By Matlhomola Morake
