One must really give praise where it’s due and admire coaches like Roger Fortune (pictured) from Young Pirates FC and Rygersdal FC’s Ashraf Calvert – not because they are down to earth and exemplary individuals, but specifically for the excitement, entertainment and value they bring to Safa Cape Town’s Third Division.
One wouldn’t say both clubs are featuring in their debut season as they are so competitive and comfortable looking when going about their business – and it’s no surprise that both are impressively placed in the top five.
Rygers are currently second with 32 points from 15 matches, while Pirates are breathing down their necks with 28 points from their 15 matches – not too shabby for their first season.
One can safely say that Fortune and Calvert are amateur coaches operating like pro’s in the proverbial Graveyard League. They are competent and diligent coaches that leave no stone unturned – fuelled by passion and driven by success which is why one can expect a humdinger between the third and fifth place Pirates and Rygers respectively.
This duo will be on display when Pirates welcome the more influential Rygers at the ‘Harry Gwala’ in Heideveld (19:30) on Friday (20 February) and sparks can fly. It’s really going to be an interesting tactical battle and to see how they set up their sides for this clash. Fortune says he expects sparks could fly in this “lekka head-to-head” encounter.
“We’ll have to make the most of our home ground,” Fortune pointed out to No Bones with Jones. “I expect it will be a good game for the fans, very competitive. I’m just hoping that our preparation goes well,” he added.
