Cape Town City want to start the new season with a bang against Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 this weekend.
The Citizens failed to launch at the beginning of last campaign, going on a run of one win in their first 10 games – a run which cost coach Benni McCarthy his job.
Under Jan Olde Riekerink, the club rebuilt and managed a sixth-placed finish in the league and a shot at some early silverware.
City have a decent record in the tournament, making the last four in their first season, before reaching the final in 2017 and lifting the trophy in 2018. And after last season’s flop, winger Surprise Ralani is keen to stay in the mix.
He tells the Daily Voice: “Ja eish, very pleased with how we finished the previous season given the fact as to how we started.
“So for this season the aim is to stay within the top eight all season long and obviously give the best we can for all trophies that’s on offer.”
The wing wizard expects a massive test from Pirates, who have added Thulani Hlatshwayo, Deon Hotto, Terrence Dzvukamanja (Wits), Collins Makgaka (Baroka), Wayde Jooste (Highlands Park) and are looking to complete a deal for Maritzburg United goalkeeper Richard Ofori before kickoff.
Ralani adds: “The Pirates game is going to be a tough one to open the season with because of the new signings and we haven’t seen them play as yet to know their combination.
“We know they’re gonna come guns blazing, but we’re totally ready for the challenge.”