NMMU will be looking to go one better than last year and have stepped up their preparations for the Varsity Football tournament by having pre-season matches against PSL giants Ajax Cape Town and Kaizer Chiefs.
The Madibaz are currently at their George campus where they will be playing against Ajax Cape Town on Sunday, July 13. They will then return to PE before taking on Kaizer Chiefs at the NMMU Stadium on Thursday, July 27.
Coach Greame Harrison says that it is vital to play these sort of matches as it build team chemistry and gets the team to play as a unit.
“Our main focus in the lead up to the tournament is on working together as a unit and really building the comradery. That’s why I am happy we have these games so that we can gauge where we are and see how much improvement there has been,” he said.
The men from PE were unbeaten throughout the competition before losing to UP-Tuks in the final, their only loss of the season. They will be looking to build on the platform that was set last year but Harrison says there is still room for improvement.
“I’ve watched them play a few games last season and it’s exciting to now be in charge of them. We placed a lot of focus on sharpening up the tactical aspects of the game,” he added.
Harrison stressed that spirits are high in the camp and the feeling of togetherness is their main focus as there only six players have been retained from last years’ competition.
“It’s an exciting time for myself and the team as we have young, exciting players who have a hunger to do well. We have had to rebuild the team and these pre-season games will help in bringing everyone together. It is also nice for the players to rate themselves against PSL players,” he said.
Harrison said that his team will be looking to take each game as it comes and will not underestimate any opponent.
The Madibaz have a tricky start to the campaign as they host NWU in the opening game of the tournament. The match will be broadcast live on Supersport 4. Kick-off is on July 21 at 16:30 local time.
