Chippa eye Nedbank Cup glory after Sundowns win
Chippa coach Clinton Larsen believes vying for Nedbank Cup honors will not comprise Chippa United’s quest to haul themselves out of the relegation quagmire in the Absa Premiership,
Clinton Larsen, Coach of Polokwane City. (Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix)
The Chilli Boys have put their name in the hat for the last 16 draw after eliminating Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday afternoon in Port Elizabeth.
“Beating a team like Sundowns in the first round does give you confidence going into the next draw. I am very happy that the players’ efforts have been rewarded with a victory and I am just happy for them,” said Larsen.
“I don’t really see it as a gamble. When we accessed our squad we got cover in a lot of departments. A cup game is four games and you are in the final. If an opportunity presents itself we are going to try and maximize and take advantage of the situation,” he continued.
“Having the versatility of our new signings, Donashano Malama and Gladwin Shitolo, it’s like having five players because they are so versatile. Shitolo can play in a No.6 and No.8 roles, Malama can play as a central defender and as a right back if needed. Having those players in the event of injuries and suspensions, we will have the necessary cover. We feel we have enough to see us through,” he added.
Larsen added that he hopes for a friendly draw in the next round and is confident that a good run in the cup can give them confidence to climb up the league standings.
“I am more on the side of gaining momentum from doing well in both because it would be great for the club to advance in the cup and still push up the table in the league and I believe that is possible. With a little bit of luck in the draw, a home draw and maybe a weaker opposition you can then find yourself in the quarterfinal then into the semifinal and hopefully that will be the case.”
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