Those lucky/unlucky coaches who’ve been to a playoff campaign of any sorts will know exactly what awaits coach Andrew Pequeno (pictured) and his Vasco da Gama outfit at the Third Division Playoffs at the Kwa-Nokuthula Stadium in Plettenberg Bay on 20-21 July.
But to the majority – who have no inclination of the amount of planning and preparation that goes into what is usually deemed the biggest occasion in any club’s history, Vasco head coach Andrew Pequeno shares his thoughts and experiences.
“There will always be nerves at the playoffs, but it is how you deal with it that counts,” Pequeno told No Bones with Jones. “Positive nervous energy is always good. If you are not nervous there, then it does not mean as much to you as it should. It is how we harness that – but our players have been under pressure for most of the season and came through it well,” the experienced mentor added.
Pequeno led Vasco, who comfortably won the Hollywoodbets Third Division title, to his Third league after he won it twice with Hanover Park a few seasons back.
“I am pretty calm and having been there twice before I know to always expect the unexpected and prepare the team for all eventualities. The nine weeks between our last league game and the 1st playoff game is not ideal but we knew the hand we were dealt so we are preparing as best we can,” he added.
Pequeno stated that each playoff campaign is different and comes with its own challenges, especially with the break in communication from the powers that be.
With the knowledge of the venue and final dates confirmed it gives the Parow-based outfit some clarity as they are working hard towards their target now.
“Some good friendlies played and two more lined up before we leave,” Pequeno explained. “The players can see the finishing line and we are working hard towards that now.”
The Vasco tactician pointed out that he is still left in the dark regarding the allocated squad number as well as confirmation on whether the “Unders rule” will apply or not.
“We have not been told of a limit for the squad so we are moving forward based on all being available to be selected for the playoffs. We still have our 25 players and sent the list to SAFA WC with our 25 players on that list.
“We have also not been told about the “Unders rule” being utilized or not. We will most probably be told this at the playoffs at the Friday team briefing,” Pequeno concluded.
Photo supplied by Ricardo Snyman
