READ: Komphela doesn't want sympathy
Life as Amakhosi coach begins next week Wednesday for Komphela as he takes charge of his first official game against his former team Maritzburg United in the top 8 cup.
ALSO READ: Komphela on Maritzburg reunion
The 48-year-old believes starting well in the season opener could set up a good tone for his Chiefs tenure.
"The teams that are going to be campaigning in the MTN8 Cup are going to send a message to everyone else, even to the supporters that hey, its going to be tough this season and that's the tone, so personally I'd like to win and retain it," he says.
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The Naturena-based side claimed the lucrative competition without conceding a goal when they beat enemies Orlando Pirates 1-0 in the Final courtesy of a Tefu Mashamaite header.
Komphela is aware of the impressive record as the team gears up to start their title defence at home to the Team of Choice.
"It's a great record they had. They were the best team defensively. Even last season when the games were going on, we were praying at Maritzburg that they must concede but they never did.
"They didn't lose, they didn't concede and that to me is a sign of a team that works together so you look back and say what made you not to concede and then try get to that level."
Chiefs take on Soweto rivals Pirates in the pre-season Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday.
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For more from Komphela get the latest edition of KICK OFF Magazine (Issue 460) - out now - as the new Chiefs boss gears up to lead the League and MTN8 champs. Here's what else you can expect...