Valhalla Park United’s under-18 side (pictured), driven by ” no fear” is going where no other side in the history of the club has gone – a semifinal of Safa Cape Town’s prestigious Coke Cup.
The furthest a previous under-18 went in this cup, was a quarterfinal berth a few seasons ago.
Coach Sherwin Souls and his Valhalla side are also fully aware that they are flying the flag for the Northern LFA in this David and Goliath competition – and with one match away from the final at the Athlone Stadium, the pressure has mounted.
But first, they will have to overcome an equally solid Hanover Park FC unit with the same aspirations which is an indication that the sparks can fly.
Souls emphasized that Valhalla’s “no fear” attitude thus far has contributed towards their fantastic run in the competition.
Souls stated that he is confident they can get this cup tie over the line as the players already personify attributes of champions.
Souls explained to No Bones with Jones: “The tenacity and attitude from the boys and their willingness to run for each other and to go that extra mile for one another, is probably what could get us over the line,” Sauls added.
“The respect will be there for them but that is as far as it goes. But when it comes to playing the game, we will show no fear as we have done right throughout this competition. Our positive attitude and willingness to win will be key to success,” the Valhalla United mentor added.
Souls, who is assisted by Annies Rhode, has also highlighted the good work done by the club coaches as a collective as another factor for their upwards trajectory.
The club has become like a shopping mall for PSL clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and others who’ve got solid links to the club thanks to development work done by Ashley OIiver, Renaldo Abrahams and Muneer Brooks.
“You cannot ignore the work and contribution by all the other coaches at the club,” Sauls pointed out. “Not just here in Valhalla Park, but also for the footballing fraternity. We work collectively towards a common goal. Oh, we also need to thank Zain Abrahams for his input as well as we have learnt a lot from him,” Souls concluded.
