Mpheni Defenders owner, Sydwell Phuravhathu

By: Refilwe Sebola

Mpheni Defenders owner Sydwell Phuravhathu says that his team is not under pressure to win their upcoming match against stream B champions Tzaneen United.

The two teams are set to meet this Saturday the 18th of this month at the old Peter Mokaba stadium in a crucial ABC Motsepe League Provincial playoff game. Phuravhathu mentioned that although they have their sights set on winning and getting promoted, they are not under any pressure to do so as he is still building his new players.

During one of his games, he stated that winning the league with new players this season would be a bonus. “We are not under pressure to win this game or promotion however no soldier goes to war expecting to die. We will fight for victory “he said.

Mpheni missed promotion in their last game of the national playoffs last season when their best team lost 3-2 on penalties to Northern Cape side Upington City. Soccer pundits believe that the Elim-based side is not as strong this season as they were the previous season.

They lost most of their experienced players to National First Division clubs. Although they lost only once this season they however only managed to win only nine and drew seven of their 17 league games.