Goalie sad to miss big Chilli Boys, Bucs game
CHIPPA United shot-stopper Daniel Akpeyi is disappointed that he will be watching the team’s Premier Soccer League season opener against Orlando Pirates from the stands due to suspension.
The Nigerian goalkeeper received a fourth yellow card in the last game of the previous season against Free State Stars and is forced to sit out one game.
The Chilli Boys play the Buccaneers at the Soweto Stadium on Saturday (kickoff 6pm).
“I feel so disappointed that I won’t be starting the season with the team, but these things happen. It’s quite unfortunate that I received a yellow card last season in the final game of the league,” Akpeyi said.
“I feel sad that I will be missing out on a game of such magnitude, but I want to wish the team all the best and my spirit is always with them.
“The players have been working so hard.
“The spirits are very high now, we are all looking forward to this game and I am sure we would like to finish the game with a very good result.
“It’s going to be an interesting game, though,” he said.
The signing of former Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo will bring some competition to the Chippa goalkeeping department, as both players will be fighting for the No 1 position in the team.
However, the Nigerian, 31, does not seem to be worried about the new recruit, saying the new addition will keep everyone on their toes.
“No, it’s a good thing that the team has signed another experienced goalkeeper – everybody is pushing.
“It’s going to encourage each and every one to be on top of their games in the team, especially in my department.
“Other departments in the team have been reinforced as well. It’s a good challenge.
“We just need to be solid at the back, that’s what’s important this season,” Akpeyi said.
Meanwhile, after a long-standing partnership of 10 years, Absa on Monday night celebrated the renewal of the Absa Premiership sponsorship with the Premier Soccer League for a further five years.
At the same time, they launched the exciting 2017-18 Absa Premiership Woza Nazo “Bring it on” campaign.
ý National First Division side Mthatha Bucks announced the signing of two former Chippa players, Penjies Zulu and defender Bongani Kama.
The two are among the 17 new players Bucks have brought in to strengthen the team this season.
‘ I feel so disappointed that I won’t be starting the season with the team, but these things happen