Ke Yona project a winner

KAIZER Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter has applauded the development project by Nedbank that uses the Nedbank Cup to expose youngsters to PSL clubs.

Baxter was speaking after Chiefs beat the Nedbank Ke Yona Under-23 side 4-3 on penalties at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville on Sunday.

The Ke Yona team was selected after four coaches, including Shakes Mashaba and Owen da Gama, were assigned to go on a nation-wide talent identification programme.

Baxter, who watched the game where development coach Donald "Ace" Khuse was in charge of Chiefs, said he was impressed by what he saw.

The Englishman believes the work Nedbank is doing to promote grassroots soccer is vital to the future of South African soccer.

"Any initiative that is as well thought out as this I am positive towards because that is an area we need to get a handle on.

"We need to get players at a younger age, get the right sort of coaching to them and give them a pathway that they can follow to a career."

Khuse was thrilled with the display by his players.

"I think the players did well in front of such a big crowd, it was a good platform for them to showcase their talent," said Khuse. "It is great for the senior coach [Stuart Baxter] to see these players in action and I am sure one or two will start training with the senior team soon."

Da Gama is also happy with the project and wants to see it continuing as part of the efforts by the bank to help in developing the sport.

"For me this is what development is all about, this is what we need in South Africa and well done to Nedbank. To make ordinary people feel extraordinary, and to become extraordinary is something that our country needs," Da Gama said.