Mahlangu wants maximum points

2008-08-26 10:47

Johannesburg - Bidvest Wits skipper Sibusiso Mahlangu says only three points will be good enough when they host Santos in the first 2008/09 Absa Premiership soccer match of the season on Wednesday evening.

"We want to win, we have to win," he said. "It's important we start the season on a winning note and set the tone for the rest of the season. We're playing at home and we can't disappoint our fans." he added.

Santos were thrashed 4-0 by Kaizer Chiefs in a MTN 8 Cup match less than a month ago but Mahlangu believes their league match won't be easy.

"It's not going to be easy against Santos but we are prepared for them," the former SuperSport United midfielder said. "We watched them against Chiefs and although they lost, they never gave up. They work tirelessly, they even showed this last season when they made a late challenge for the league title."

Mahlangu identified South Africa under-23 strikers, Eleazor Rodgers and Irwin Isaacs, as the danger men from the Cape side.

"They seem to have a good understanding and they're quick. I think if we can close Rodgers down, then their attack won't be as potent."

Meanwhile Santos assistant coach Jean-Marc Ithier says the Cape side have to get maximum points too. "It is important to get off to a positive start as that just builds the confidence in the squad," Ithier told the Santos website.

"When you do well in your first few games, the players get the boost they need to perform well all season. Everybody then works together, the team spirit is at a high, and the winning results flow from there.

"If you start well, everything just seems to fall into place."

Kick off is at 20:00 at the Bidvest Stadium.

- SAPA