Derby not the epic of past years

30 October 2009 - 02:00
By Bongani Magasela

PERSONALITIES. That is what Soweto soccer derbies are all about.

PERSONALITIES. That is what Soweto soccer derbies are all about.

More so when Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs are involved.

These two blood rivals lock horns at Orlando Stadium tomorrow.

For a few seasons now the big question has been: do these clubs have quality players to warrant the ecstasy that erupts in the streets during their epic clashes?

Back in the day Pirates had influential players such as "Jomo" Sono, George "Harare" Makhubela, Toy "Digger Jazz" Ramosa and Eric "Chippa" Chauke, who could turn on the heat against any side.

Chiefs had the industrious Patrick "Ace" Ntsoelengoe and Nelson "Teenage" Dladla, who could dribble even referees. They could take on any player while going forward.

Then came Doctor "16V" Khumalo and the Tebogo "Chippa" Moloi. These two were not only charismatic but were a marvel to watch. They also understood that playing at Orlando Stadium was the ultimate.

Fact is Amakhosi have yet to find a replacement for Khumalo, while Teko Modise could potentially fill that role at Pirates.

Most of the promising players from both clubs will not rise to the occasion because Pirates and Chiefs are under the tutelage of foreign coaches who do not understand the significance of these emotional encounters.