Bucs ‘have quality’ to upset Stars – Jacobs 

Bucks Buccaneers’ mentor, Woody Jacobs, says his side has the right arsenal to eliminate favourites African Stars from the MTC Maris Cup.

The two sides will clash in the second semi-final showdown at Mariental tomorrow, preceding the encounter between Unam and Young African.

The Buccaneers secured their semi-final berth after a hard-fought 1-0 win against KK Palace.

The manner of their victory has solidified the belief that they can overcome any opposition on the day.

“We are determined to work very hard and we know that African Stars FC are a formidable side but we are looking forward to taking them on,” Jacobs says.

“I know that for the last couple of years African Stars FC has been known as the cup kings and league champions, and they do have the necessary experience. But we will come, digging deeper because we have nothing to lose.”

The two sides played to a one-all draw when they met in Debmarine Namibia Premiership, another reason why Bucks believe they can get the better of their more illustrious rivals.

“We are ready and looking forward to playing good football, and with good football you always win games,” Jacobs says.

On his part, African Stars FC acting head coach Benni Haoseb gives little away on how the Samba Boys will approach the semi-final clash.

“I do not want to disclose too much information at this moment. But preparedness-wise, we are on the right track,” the stand-in coach says.

“You know, facing a team like the Bucks Buccaneers with vast quality, I think it’s gonna be a very good game.

“I urge our supporters from the Okaserandu folklore to come out in huge numbers and support the boys, supporters are going to be the 12-men on the field,” Haoseb says.

“For me, the key players are very much known in football – even though it is a collective team effort.

“I will rely on each and every player in the team, but most importantly the captain, Ronal ‘Stiga’ Ketjijere. I think he is the mastermind who will be pulling the strings in the middle of the park,” he says.

“We want to clinch the MTC Maris Cup because African Stars FC always want to have their name first on a new cup.

“It is very much important for us to win that cup, it is going to be a confidence booster for the players ahead of a very long season,” Haoseb says.

Meanwhile, Unam FC mentor Robert Nauseb, whose side will take on Gobabis-based Young African FC, says the challenging road to the last four stages has prepared his players for the challenge that lies ahead.

Affectionately known as the ‘Clever Boys’, Unam overcame ‘cup specialists’ Eeshoke Chula Chula and then coastal heavyweights Blue Waters to get to the semis.

“Preparations obviously are going well. We started preparing three weeks ago, and this week is just to get the bodies going. With regards to the players’ fitness level, I am happy,” Nauseb says.

He says their aim is to win and reach the final by all means possible.

The excitement in the team is a positive sign that they can achieve their objective.

Young African FC, who this season have not lost a single match, have assembled a cohesive unit, which has made them a hard nut to crack.

Owner and founder Marley Ngarizemo says they have designs on going all the way.

“Overall I’m happy that the players’ mentality is positive. We expect all players to give their best and progress to the next round, which is the final,” he says.

“I encourage all our fans and supporters to rally behind the team. Unam FC is a great team under Robert Nauseb, but we will give them a good run for their money.”