If you thought that the host of the Bayhill Premier Cup, Bayhill United, was a handful last year at the tournament, then their rivals are in for a bigger surprise.
So says their passionate and committed coach Jay Visagie who is seeking back-to-back success in his fourth year with the tournament host.
Visagie, who has had his fair share of struggles early on with the club, has definitely found a winning formula. Last year’s maiden success, when they beat former champion Highlands Park in the Mid-section final, is testament thereof and it also changed the perception and outlook that the hosts are no longer just making up the numbers.
Needless to say, Bayhill has in recent years gained more respect from its rivals and it’s all thanks to the vision and capabilities of the former Ikapa United goalkeeper in Visagie.
The coach indicated that he will again not rest on his laurels this year after he specifically sourced three potent attackers dubbed the “prolific trio” for their goal scoring prowess, to his squad of 20. They are Liam Van Reenen from Valhalla United, Bernito Bart from Woodlands and Zubayr Khan from Beacon City FC.
Visagie explained to No Bones with Jones: “What I have learnt from last year is that in order to go further in the tournament you need to have quality depth in your squad. You need your guys that are coming from the bench to maintain your intensity and tempo, you know.
“A like for like situation so that it does not disturb the rhythm of the team. Therefore, I had to skarrel (search) for the missing pieces that will complement what we currently have. Look, I am just very satisfied that I found these players,” Visagie added.
Bayhill was drawn in Group A along with Virginia Sports Academy, Clover FC and Young Bafana Academy and given their recent upsurge, they would fancy their chances to progress from the group stage.
Visagie downplayed this notion when he stated. “On paper it comes across as easy but you cannot take anything for granted. So, we will approach one game at a time,” Visagie concluded.
