JOHANNESBURG -  “This will form part of our preparation going back to the PSL. We will be ready, fit and geared up,” he said. Marlin was speaking at the launch of the annual Mopani District Mayor’s Charity Cup yesterday where Sundowns are determined to successfully defend the trophy.

“This will also be a platform to showcase new talent that have joined the team,” he said. “We are still  waiting for some of our international players to return to camp. We will do whatever it takes to win the cup again.”

The tournament is a one-day knockout event with Sundowns,  SuperSport United, Swallows,  and Baobab Zero Fake FC   battling it out for the cup.

After being promoted to the Vodacom League, Zero Fake FC will be in high spirits against the PSL giants.
Marlin admitted that this year’s competition will be more attention-grabbing not only to the local football fans but entire country.

“Like we did last year, we envisage a huge turnout,” said Marlin. “But more importantly, we are happy to help raise these funds.
“Pre-season is a time where we have to prepare and make sure that we are ready  for all the PSL fixtures.”

Safa’s regional president Vincent Raphago reminded the teams that the event will contribute to worthy causes and that is vital for them to bring their first teams to the tournament.

“The teams that have played in this tournament before know the value and the importance of bringing their first teams here, we will be very happy if that be the case this year,” said Ramaphago

  “Since its inception we have collected funds that have assisted our communities in a number of ways and we are hoping that this year will be no different.”