Ezenkosi face tough opening games

JOMO Sono believes Cosmos's first match back in the PSL will provide a yardstick to measure the ability of his side in the new season.

Ezenkosi are set for a baptism of fire against PSL giants Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns, who they meet in successive fixtures, starting on August 13.

Drawing on past experience, the Cosmos boss and coach said playing the two giants in succession could be an advantage or a disadvantage.

"But I must admit the early fixtures against the PSL giants are a concern," Sono said. "We lost 4-0 to Orlando Pirates in our first match last season and that early setback had a psychological effect on us throughout the season.

"You can't rely on history against teams like Chiefs. A lot has changed in the league and, like most teams, they've strengthened.

"In Bernard Parker and Lehlohonolo Majoro, Chiefs have got the best striking pair. If they click they will prove a challenge for opponents.

"The biggest challenge for us was getting back to the Premiership and that has been achieved."

Sono was speaking in Johannesburg yesterday at his club's partnership launch with Truck Centre Group, a company that provided the club with a team bus.

The former Bafana Bafana coach has further strengthened his side with three players from Ghana, namely striker Ernest Oseiboakye and defenders Fosu Appiah and Jonathan Ahoon.