By Monwabisi Jimlongo
Vladislav Heric’s two-pronged mission is going to continue this coming weekend when Chippa United clash with Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
The Chilli Boys and Vhadau Vha Damani meet in the Nedbank Cup final on Saturday with Heric looking at bringing glory to Gqeberha.
Heric was recalled to the Chilli Boys by club chairman Siviwe ‘Chippa’ Mpengesi to save the team from relegation and deliver the Nedbank Cup trophy. The Chilli Boys have been impressive in their last three matches – winning twice and drawing once.
Saturday’s match gives the Serbian a chance to make history by becoming the first coach to bring a trophy to Gqeberha. And Heric fully understands the difficult job he has.
“We can expect a very tough game. Final is 50-50 and will be very tough. It might not be attractive because everyone wants to win,” the Chilli Boys coach said.
“A lot of doors will be closed. We might take into consideration that both of us are fighting relegation. From my side I will put all my weapons to try to win the game.”
Heric, who is in his third stint at the Gqeberha-based club, knows what he has to do.
“We have one goal to achieve. We have managed to lift self confidence of the players. I must say players have responded very well to changes. So far we have a very good understanding. We are also trying to keep the players focused on things we want to achieve,” Heric said.
Heric also said that winning the Nedbank Cup trophy and playing continental football might boost the beautiful game in the Eastern Cape.
