They are not the best of starters but once they find their mojo they become difficult to stop. Tuks know when to step up a gear in this competition. They are not the most successful team for nothing. They are just one match away from reaching the final and playing in the derby gives them extra motivation.
UP-Tuks are motivated by revenge
Will lightning strike twice in the same place in the same year? Will Tuks be able to stomach another defeat by their bitter rivals again? No. That is the answer coming from the Tuks faithful, they are not prepared to lose to the same team twice in one season. It’s unthinkable in Hatfield to lose to TUT twice in one season. Tuks are out to avenge their 2-1 opening day defeat.
Tuks have big match temperament
Bring the big games on and you will see what Tuks are made of. Tuks thrive under pressure and that is what makes them tick. When there is lot at stake they tend to step up a gear and rise to the occasion. When the going gets tough they know how to respond and expect no difference as they prepare to welcome their neighbours to their fortress.
Jeremiah Nkwana loves the big stage
He wears jersey no.10, takes set-pieces and he is Tuks’ influential player. The dazzling midfielder just loves to showcase his God-given talent in front of the camera and a big audience. Nkwana loves to feature in big matches and this is his stage to shine. He will be at his usual best and he will dish out those famous passes that introduced him to the tournament.
Tuks have home ground advantage
The big incentive for Tuks is that they are playing at home. Yes, TUT is just a stone’s throw away, but the conditions there are so intimidating and visiting teams often lose before kicking a ball. Playing at home gives Tuks that extra edge to attack from the onset and push hard for the win in regulation time.
Tuks have found their form at the right time
It took forever, but once they found their feet they showed what they are capable off. Tuks peaked at the right time. They say knockout football has no second chances and Tuks know this well. They found their rhythm and they are ready to send TUT packing. Other teams peaked too early and paid a heavy price for that by being eliminated before the actually knockout stages.
By Charles Baloyi – Daily Sun and Sunday Sun sports writer
