Hendricks: “Fortress Chatsworth” Faces Ultimate Test Against Casric Stars
Durban City assistant coach Achraf Hendricks believes a “one game at a time” approach is the vital medicine needed to prevent the squad from being lost in the euphoria of their breakout season.
The newly promoted side has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the PSL this term.
Currently sitting fifth in the Betway Premiership with 35 points, the “Citizens” now prepare for a historic Nedbank Cup semi-final against Casric Stars at Chatsworth Stadium this Saturday.
However, a grueling seven-day stretch looms. Following the cup clash, City faces a league title-contesting Mamelodi Sundowns and a local derby against Golden Arrows.
“I think first thing, we have to take one game at a time,” Hendricks told Sportswire.
“That is important. We have Casric Stars on Saturday, which is the first, and that result goes out of the window the next day.
“Because in the next three games we have Casric Stars, Sundowns, and Golden Arrows. In seven days, we can basically be on the high like we are right now or come the following week we could be on the low.
“It will all depend on how we take it. But the first thing first is Casric at home, the Nedbank Cup semi-final. Because it could be a big thing for the club, from the Motsepe Foundation Championship to the Betway Premiership.”
Durban City’s season-long unbeaten home record is under direct threat. Their opponents, Casric Stars, have reached the semi-finals by winning every single match away from home—including high-profile “giant-killings” of Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu.
“First and foremost, we have created a fortress at Chatsworth Stadium,” said Hendricks.
“Even now, the Sundowns game at home, we want to win. The biggest concern Casric has beaten big teams. But I think, not taking things for granted, that could be the reason why they beat Pirates and AmaZulu.
“They are also competing up there [battling for promotion in the Motsepe Foundation Championship], competing in the Nedbank Cup.
“It shows they have a good team. They are a team that wants to compete, and they are playing every game, just like us, to win.
“For us, it is a big concern, but we are aware of the threat as well.”
