Kaizer Chiefs are determined to put a smile on fans’ faces when they meet arch rivals Pirates in the Soweto Derby at Ellis Park on Saturday. Kick-off is at 4pm.
That was the promise from Amakhosi veteran right wing Arthur Zwane, who is a survivor of countless Soweto Derbies since he joined the club in 2000.
At 35 he has been a revelation and an example to younger players as to the way he keeps fit and looks after himself.
Said Zwane: ”I will play anywhere for Chiefs. As long as I can play a role I am happy to contribute as much as I can.”
Zwane turns 36 in September, but shows no signs of slowing up: ”It is all about dedication to training and being professional when it comes to my job as a player. I love playing for Chiefs and want to keep going.”
As regards to the Derby, Zwane said it would be another day at the office for him. ”I am used to these type of pressure games and I love them. But this one is obviously more special due to the fact there is a chance of both Pirates and Chiefs in with an outside chance of edging SuperSport United for the title. The Derby winner would be in with a great chance to win the league if — and that is a big if — United lose their remaining two fixtures.
”But there is hope and we must play this as a cup final. We are both out of the Nedbank Cup and what a better way to end the season than with a win over Pirates and keeping the door to the league title open. We owe it to the Chiefs supporters top go out and give it a 200% effort on Saturday.”
Zwane is still hoping to play in the 2010 African Champions League if Chiefs win the Premiership or finish runners-up.
Said Zwane: ”The African Champions League is one of our goals for this season. We are close to achieving that and cannot afford to slip up at this late stage.”
Zwane was confident the players would rise to the occasion and not let the pressure get to them.
”Pirates have also improved at lot and that is good for the Derby. The fact that a draw is no good to either side as regards the title, means the fans will be treated to an open attacking game.” — Sapa