The vibe in the Chilli Boys camp before the new Absa Premiership season is the best Mark Mayambela has ever experienced, the midfield general said.
Club chairman Siviwe Mpengesi has been busy during the transfer window period signing 14 new players for his Port Elizabeth-based team.
Mayambela, 30, said the new recruits had added great value to the team.
“Preseason went very well for us,” he said.
“Of course there are a lot of new players, but the majority of last season’s players are still there,” the former Royal Eagles and Ajax Cape Town man said.
“The chairman has signed many great players this season, like Thamsanqa Sangweni, Daine Klate and Thabo Nthethe.
“They bring a great balance into the squad.
“Tebogo Makobela from Jomo Cosmos is also one of the best young players we have. “The mood has been great. “I think it’s the best I have experienced so far.
“We have also taken the initiative as players to create a good vibe, team spirit and brotherhood among ourselves.
“I am anticipating a very different and successful season.
“Many of the new players have achieved in their previous teams, so we are expecting them to share that experience with us.
“I believe that their contribution will be valuable on and off the field.”
The side kick off their league campaign against Bloemfontein Celtic at the Dr Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein on Sunday.With Celtic having appointed a new coach in Steve Komphela, Mayambela said things would be tricky as they would be going to Bloemfontein not knowing what to expect.
“Of course we want to start well. If we can go there and get maximum points it will be a great boost going into the next game, which will be our first home match against Orlando Pirates on Wednesday.
“We are going there to fight for the three points, but if the situation does not allow us to then we will settle for a point.
“They have a new coach and we are not too sure if coach Steve will use the same formation and tactics he was using at Chiefs or whether they will continue the way they played last season.
“But, we know that in terms of their playing personnel there was not much movement in terms of signings.
“It’s never easy going to Bloemfontein Celtic,” Mayambela said.