Over
the years, the Soweto Derby has been known as a “never to be missed” occasion
on the football calendar. The 2013 Carling Black Label Cup is set to add
another chapter to the derby history by providing more unforgettable memories
for champion coaches across South Africa.
Whether
at the stadium or the comfort of their homes, the fierce rivalry between Kaizer
Chiefs and Orlando Pirates brings about unbridled passion from fans – 27 July
2013 is set to do the same.
Among
those looking forward to the much anticipated derby is 31 years old Lebohang
Matinyane from Phokeng. Matinyane watched the two previous Carling Black Label
Cup matches at a local tavern with friends.
Although their company always adds to the drama of a derby game, he is
certain the stadium atmosphere is what live football is all about and he will
certainly be doing things differently this year.
“The
minute I heard tickets were on sale, I immediately went and bought mine. This
time around, it will be me, my wife and our two sons sitting at Soccer City.’’
“I
have voted for all my best players in the Bucs camp and will continue to do so
till closing date. All I wish is for my team (Orlando Pirates) to start the
next season on a high note.” said Matinyane.
For
28 year old Simphiwe Ndlela, the Carling Black Label Cup means he has to mix
business with pleasure. The fanatic Amakhosi supporter owns a minibus taxi and
has been tasked to drive members of his supporters’ branch to the game.
“We
have shown our support for the team by voting and we now have to show that we
are the real champion coaches by attending the game. I have been doing this for
the past two years and even though our team lost, it has been worth it. We are
looking forward to being part of this prestigious event.” said Ndlela.
Judging
by Kaizer Chiefs’ sterling performance in the 2012/13 season, Ndlela is
confident they will lift their first ever Carling Black Label Cup Trophy,
making his five hours trip from Pinetown in KZN worthwhile indeed.
Meanwhile,
Phathiswa Mngomezulu from Kempton Park is also excited about this year’s
tournament. “I like the Carling Black
Label initiative because we as fans get to choose who we want on the pitch and
on the bench. During the first year, I did not know much about the concept and
did not participate but things were different last year – I went all out to
educate myself and learned how to vote. It was a fun and interactive
experience. I am doing it again this
year and I am still enjoying it,” Said Mngomezulu.
Vuyane
Nongoma from the Free State has also given the Carling Black Label Cup campaign
his thumbs up.
“I
have been supportive of my team Kaizer Chiefs since the inception of Carling
Black Label Cup. To me the most important thing is that, this is the first in
SA. We came up with something that has never been done anywhere. We have to be
proud; I love this Mzansi initiative,” Said Nongoma.
To
enter and ‘Be the Champions Coach’, fans over the age of 18 can once again
purchase a specially marked bottle of Carling Black Label beer and look out for
the unique code on the underside of the
bottle top.
Voting is free to the consumer. Those supporters who cast their votes can win great prizes, including a share of R3-million worth of airtime, match tickets to the spectacle event on July 27 and, best of all, a coach’s experience with either Orlando Pirates or Kaizer Chiefs on match day.
