'Bafana must show hunger'
2005-03-23 21:22
Billy Cooper
Johannesburg - Bafana Bafana must show hunger and desire to beat Uganda in Saturday's World Cup
qualifier at the FNB Stadium.
That was the message from leading striker Shuan Bartlett, who celebrates a decade of playing
for his country next month and who will earn his 71st cap against the Cranes of Uganda.
"It is always a huge honour playing for my country. I remember my debut against Lesotho, in
Maseru in April 1994, as if it was yesterday. We are all pumped up for this match," said
Bartlett.
But stressed the Charlton Athletic striker: "We must be hungrier and want to win it more than
Uganda. We know that Uganda have nothing to lose and everything to gain. They will try and
unsettle us. But we are up for the challenge. My goal is to help Bafana reach the World Cup
finals next year and I aim to give 2005 effort."
Bartlett who has been in top form for his English Premiership club said the key factor was the
confidence within the Bafana camp: "We have been on a bit of a roll over the last six months. The spirit is great, the players are looking good at training and the
confidence is there. All we need to do is ensure we take this confidence and our experience on to the pitch on Saturday and get the three points."
Bartlett also said he expected huge support from the Johannesburg public: "We as a national team
always enjoy playing here in Joburg because we can bank on good solid support from the fans.
We are all looking forward to this match."
- Daily Sun