No doubt about it, this Soweto Derby is going to be a cracker. Both teams have players hitting top form early in the season.
Kermit Erasmus and Majoro are heating up for Bucs. Oupa Manyisa is adding goals to his sweat and toil. But for me the premier player in the league right now is Reneilwe Letsholonyane. He keeps on adding better parts to his game each season. He has evolved from somewhat of a destroyer into a conductor. Not only does he have the physical part to his game, which at times was a simple breakup, and give to someone in a more advanced position. He now is able to drive forward with the ball, has an eye for the through pass but now seems to be able to identify the shorter pass as a way to open up the door of the tightest defence.
What's more is that not only is he getting himself into scoring positions - he is actually putting the ball in the back of the net. In short, he has become to Kaizer Chiefs what Yaya Toure is to Manchester City. There is an excitement when Yeye gets the ball - a buzz in the stadium. You want to watch what he is going to do next because you know it's probably going to be special.
My gut feel is that he will be the difference between the two teams on derby day - not to undermine the fine work that VV is doing at Pirates. I just think that when Yeye is on form, his supporting cast of star players have the edge over most teams.
Don't get me wrong though. If Erasmus, Majoro and Manyisa are on top of their game, Bucs are devastating. You don't get to the final of an African Champions League final with average players. If the real Bucs turn up on derby day then even the stingy Kaizer Chiefs defence will be under immense pressure.
I cannot wait for this derby!
I'm giving the theme of empty stadiums a break this week as we all know this game will be packed to the rafters.
Why don't you tell me below what you like best about Derby Day in South Africa.
Cheers
Clint
