3 February 2009

Draw not an option for Igesund

Maritzburg United coach Gordon Igesund says that he would rather 'go down 4-3 fighting' than adopt defensive tactics.

This fighting talk was of course coming ahead of United's big clash with Igesund's former side, Mamelodi Sundowns, at the Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday night.

United go into the game boosted with self-belief by recent wins over Celtic and Ajax.

"I always believed we would beat Celtic. We have been playing well but need to get more consistency. But beating Celtic and the 2-0 home win over Ajax Cape Town recently has really boosted the players self belief," he told Sapa.

While there is a very real belief that Maritzburg can topple the big-spending Brazilians, coach Igesund remains respectful of the quality they possess in their ranks.

"Individually Sundowns have the best players in the PSL. But they have their own worries. Their coach (Henri Michel) is still new and getting to know his players and still does not know the strengths and weaknesses of his players. I hope to take advantage of that situation." Downs thumped United 3-1 at the Super Stadium in the first round a result Igesund would like to reverse.

He then went on to fire a warning to Downs, making ot clear that the Pretoria side can expect the Team of Choice to come out firing on all cylinders at Chatsworth.

"I have a plan for Sundowns. We will not sit back and hope for a point. A draw is not on my agenda. I would rather go down 4-3 fighting for a win than take the defensive option and try and get a draw. What I am planning is to attack. I want three points. I believe the players can do me and the club proud. It won't be easy but now that we have eased our relegation fears, the players are more relaxed and ready to stand up and take on the so called big clubs such as Sundowns."

United will be without the services of star striker Fadlu Davids (suspended), while on-loan Fanyana Dhladhla is ineligible to play against his own club.