Heat is on Downs say Powerlines side

ABSA Premier Soccer League leaders Mamelodi Sundowns hold no fears for Powerlines, a club from Kimberley playing in the lower leagues (Vodacom League).

The teams meet on Sunday in a Nedbank Cup match.

And Powerlines say they will rely on God, prayer, and the notorious Northern Cape heat to beat Downs.

"We are used to the unbearable hot weather in Kimberley which can soar up to 40 degrees," said Powerlines coach Cornelius Branot. "I had sweat dripping down my face while sitting at home.

"Just imagine what it could do to people who are chasing after the ball. We have been praying to God to help us win on Sunday and hopefully He will answer our prayers. No team will stand in our way after our clash with Sundowns. We are more than ready for them."

Retorted Sundowns coach Johan Neeskens: "We can withstand any weather and we can also pray as much as they can. We will see who will be the first to wilt," said the Dutchman.

Sundowns have a player in their ranks who is used to Kimberley's heat. Striker Richard Henyekane hails from the city, but this will only be his second visit there as a professional.

Meanwhile Batau FC, who also campaign in the Vodacom League, take on Supersport United in another Nedbank Cup showdown on Sunday at Ermelo's AJ Swanepoel stadium.

"It will be an honour for us to play against a team of United's calibre," said Batau captain Malusi Cebekhulu. "Our guys will learn a lot from playing against a team that has won trophies."

Ramatsiyi Moholoa writes that Kaizer Chiefs are wary of tomorrow night's opponents, Cape Town All Stars, because they know little about them.

"They have a few players from Ajax Cape Town that I know from an era when I was still there," said Chiefs' Dominic Isaacs.

All Stars general manager Faeez Dulvie said they wanted to make a name for themselves by winning tomorrow.

"We will do the talking on the field, it is good many people are not giving us a chance," he said.

After missing the game against Wits because of suspension, the Amakhosi welcome back goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune.

Kgomotso Sethusha reports that Maritzburg United have never won a major trophy but have now set their sights on the Nedbank Cup. The best they have done is promotion to the premier league and the semifinals of the Absa Cup in 2005.

Club boss Farouk Kadodia said that if Ajax Cape Town, Wits and Golden Arrows could achieve successes with their limited resources, why not Maritzburg?

"We have put together a strong team and I believe this time we will go far," said Kadodia.

Maritzburg host Bloemfontein Celtic at Harry Gwala stadium tonight.