Magesi FC head coach Clinton Larsen has discussed the impressive start to their first season in the Betway Premiership.
Unlike many newly promoted clubs, Magesi has defied the odds by reaching the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout in their inaugural season in the top tier, having already claimed victories against Orlando Pirates and TS Galaxy FC along the way.
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This Saturday, they will face the unpredictable Richards Bay FC at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium in Durban for a chance to secure a spot in the Carling Knockout final.
"It's been a good run so far, we are trying to prepare for one game at a time, whether in the league or the cup," Larsen tells KickOff.
"We are a small team and not the strongest, but our players are fighting. That's what we always ask them to do.
"Every game we play, we are the underdogs, so they must fight because nobody gives us a chance to win. At the beginning of the season, everyone said, 'Haai Magesi, it's free three points for all.' So we just have to fight together and keep punching above our weight."
"Winning always builds confidence. We are now six games without a loss in the league and cup, and that gives us a lot of confidence. Hopefully, the players can draw from that, as our good run in the cup competition is not motivated by money, the team is trying to build a name for itself," he added.
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"Nobody knows Magesi yet. Only now are people starting to hear about us, so the club needs to grow its brand. It's very important to put the club on the football map, and that's what we are trying to achieve."
"It also helps to have a few experienced players in a young squad. Their influence is crucial, whether in the changing room or on the field.
"Richards Bay will also be looking to win the game, as they have never reached a final. Both teams will be going for victory, so it's going to be a very interesting match.
"If we win, we won't have control over who we meet in the final. Regardless of the opponent, it will be two strong teams with two good coaches, Manqoba Mngqithi and Dan Malesela. I have played in a cup final before against Sundowns in the Telkom Knockout, so it doesn't matter who we face in the final, the most important thing is to get there."