Free State Stars coach Ernst Middendorp is pleased with his start at the club, but admits that they need to be well prepared if they want to see off Mamelodi Sundowns in the Telkom Knockout quarter-finals.

Since Midderndorp took over at Ea Lla Koto, the team has not lost a game in the three league matches and one Telkom Knockout encounter, with the German-born mentor attributing the success to team work.

However, following the Telkom Knockout draw on Monday, Stars are faced with a stiff challenge against the star-studded Brazilians, but the former Kaizer Chiefs coach says they will be ready.

"It's true we have been doing well, but it's all about team work. As for the Telkom Knockout, the players will be well prepared because they know that they want to win a trophy this season,” he said.

“It could be good if we can start with the TKO, but to do that we have to win this game against Sundowns first," Middendorp concluded.