Underdog Nedbank Cup teams inspiring, says Swallows captain

MOROKA Swallows captain Dikgang Mabalane says he has been inspired by the performances of Baroka FC and Highlands Park in the Nedbank Cup at the weekend, as the Dube Birds prepare to take on Super-Sport United in the last 32 at Dobsonville Stadium tonight.

National First Division table toppers Baroka fought hard to beat Chippa United 3-2 in East London on Sunday, while Highlands took Mamelodi Sundowns to extra time before Keagan Dolly’s thunderous strike brought an abrupt end to their campaign.

It is that kind of spirit that Mabalane is hoping to see from his teammates as they look to win their first match since December 15, when they beat FC Cape Town 4-0 to book themselves a spot in the Nedbank Cup.

Bottom-of-the-table Swallows, who have not won a league match since November 7, are desperate for a victory, which they hope will inspire a string of positive results.

“I was actually watching Highlands Park. I think they could easily play in the PSL.

“They are organised and everyone is working hard for the team. There is a chemistry between the players and they have a fighting spirit,” the winger turned right back said.

“Our youngsters are looking forward to being on TV and being recognised. We should motivate them, but more importantly, we should look at it as a way to get some momentum going. I am sure the boys will give their best.”

SuperSport coach Stuart Baxter, meanwhile, did not suffer any shock defeats to lower division opposition in this competition when he was at the helm of Kaizer Chiefs.

A champion with Amakhosi in 2013, Baxter faces a Swallows side that frankly cannot defend or win matches, but the former Bafana Bafana mentor is not the type to write off the opposition.

Matsatsantsa are looking to win a knockout competition to make up for what has been a very disappointing campaign for them despite having one of the best squads in the league.

“We feel we have underachieved this season and we do not want to get knocked out in the first round.

“Cups are not won in the semifinal and final. They are won in the early rounds because you have to make sure that you do not take anything for granted,” Baxter said.

“Swallows will look at this as a chance to forget about their turmoil. They will be flying and we have to make sure we do the same. I think it will be a good game for the supporters.”