SEDIBENG.- The Vaal region has a proud history of sending its finest footballing sons to the legendary Soweto Derby. As Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates prepare to clash again on February 28 at FNB Stadium, local fans are looking back at the heroes who once made the country stand still.

Over the years, many stars from the region have worn the famous jerseys of the “Big Two.”

The list of local legends includes for Orlando Pirates: Andrew ‘Malome’ Phiri, Phiri Tsotetsi, Sailor Tshabalala, Thabo Rakhale, and Steve ‘Chippa’ Lekoelea, and for Kaizer Chiefs: Simon ‘Bull’ Lehoko, Abia ‘Soul Provider’ Nale, Mokete Tsotetsi, and Thabang Rooi.

While all these players made their mark, names like Lekoelea, Rakhale, and Nale stand out as the true fan favourites of their eras.

Lekoelea and Rakhale were the darlings of Orlando Pirates supporters, while Nale was a darling for Chiefs supporters.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Lekoelea spoke about the magic of the fixture. He compared the match to the Durban July horse racing event, noting that players would even visit salons for fresh haircuts just for the occasion.

“I don’t want to lie grootman, the derby is for players with big hearts. Not everyone can handle it.”

Lekoelea recalled his intense training sessions at Virgin Active in Three Rivers and long runs on the road to ensure he was ready.

“This is how I used to prepare for the derby because our chairperson, Irvin Khoza, had sleepless nights.”

He told Sedibeng Ster Sport that his most memorable derby was a 2-0 defeat in the Rothman’s Cup, but Lekoelea added that the excitement and build-up to the Soweto Derby was unmatched.

“The whole week, people will talk about the derby, at the malls, inside taxis and buses, all as part of the excitement. But the Derby is no longer the same,” he said, suggesting that the modern build-up lacks the spark and intensity of his playing days.