Chippa United midfielder Kurt Lentjies believes that mental strength is key for the Chilli Boys, who have been playing away matches since December.
The Chilli Boys opted to play away matches because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which ravages South Africa, especially Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape.
Lentjies is getting some game time under coach Dan Malesela after failing to make it to the match day squad during Lehlohonolo Seema’s time as Chilli Boys mentor.
He came on as a second half substitute and scored the equalising goal against unbeaten Swallows FC in Dobsonville on Wednesday evening.
And the same performance is expected when the Chilli Boys face Black Leopards at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday.
“We came to the Swallows match with confidence after our win over Galaxy. We respected Swallows as they are number two on the log,” Lentjies said.
“We are playing five away games in a row and mental strength is key. It’s always difficult with the travelling. However, we are positive and looking forward to the Leopards game.”
The former Maritzburg United, SuperSport United, Bloemfontein Celtic and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder seems to enjoy playing under Malesela.
“It’s not the first time that I have worked with him since joining the club in 2017. He understands me and I understand him,” Lentjies, who turns 36 on 17 February, said.
“I’m taking one game at a time. My match fitness is not there yet. I’m happy with the mental point of view at our team. This group is very strong when it comes to the mental aspect. Whatever punches teams are gonna throw at us, we are gonna punch back.
“We are looking forward to the challenge of playing against Leopards. Thohoyandou is always a great venue to play at.”
