ANDREW MUCHINERIPI, Johannesburg | Friday 7.00am.
THE Rothmans Cup knockout soccer competition has been described, with considerable justification, as the premier event of the lengthy South African season.
As the first Rothmans Cup kicked off, the South African soccer public were treated to two incredible finals between Kaizer Chiefs and Sundowns with both going to extra time and both won on penalties by Chiefs under the tutelage of animated Franco-Yugoslav coach Paul Dolezar.
This season we have witnessed an equally spectacular Rothmans Cup with the first-round elimination of Chiefs by traditionally poor cup competitors Hellenic.
The prospect of Orlando Pirates meeting Sundowns in the second leg of a semi-final at FNB Stadium on Saturday is certainly setting my pulse racing a little faster than usual.
Pirates hold a 1-0 lead, earned through an early Dennis Lota goal at Loftus Stadium, so a draw will see the Buccaneers through to their first Rothmans Cup decider.
However, Sundowns possess so much attacking potential that I cannot see Pirates sitting back and trying to defend their slender advantage. Besides, the Sea Robbers also possess considerable power up front.
Zambian international Lota has been on a hot scoring streak with three against Africa Sports of Cote d’Ivoire, one against Sundowns and two more last Sunday against Bloemfontein Celtic on the eve of his 27th birthday.
Frank Schoeman, a much improved defender since joining Sundowns from Bush Bucks, could be the man detailed to defuse the Lota threat while much will depend on captain Daniel Mudau at the other end.
The leading 1998-1999 Castle Premiership scorer came close several times in the first encounter and his duel with Guy-Roger Nzeng promises to have a significant impact on the result.
The first leg of the other semi-final is scheduled for Sunday at Vosloorus, if Cosmos win the right to face Manning Rangers, or at QwaQwa if Stars emerge victorious off the field.
Frankly, I do not mind who wins this one, just as long as it takes place.