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Tadious Manyepo
Sports Reporter
WARRIORS coach, Jairos Tapera, says while his players have bowled him with their commitment to duty, he is not happy with some aspects of their physical conditioning.
He officially met his men, for the first time, since being appointed their interim gaffer, in South Africa, yesterday morning.
The Warriors take on Lesotho at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Friday before they face-off against Bafana Bafana at Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday next week in World Cup qualifiers.
“I am happy to be with this amazing group of players who are showing a lot of zeal and enthusiasm in representing their country,” said Tapera.
“As the technical team, we got to meet the players in the morning before we started training. I should say, I am thrilled with the attitude on display. They are showing that they really want to defend the badge and that is a very good sign if you ask me.
“The morning session was basically about assessing the players’ fitness levels. I am not too satisfied and that’s an area we need to work on.
“Obviously, I think the reason for that is because the season is over for most of them especially those coming from Europe. They are not very far off though.”
Tapera said the squad will be training twice a day until tomorrow.
“We will focus more on loading and tactics. I think, the physical fitness aspect will also be addressed in the process.
“We have quality players in this team and we will try to work on combinations in the next few days.
“I am impressed with what I am seeing. I am seeing players who are very passionate about their work and players who are showing a lot of hunger to succeed.
“So, obviously, the combinations will not be very difficult to build. I am seeing some really good chemistry and I am happy.”
He added:
“We are working towards the match against Lesotho coming on Friday.
“We know what they are capable of doing and we need not lower our guard. We are keen to bag the full points.”
Squad co-captain Teenage Hadebe did not take part in yesterday’s sessions after he flew out to sign a contract with a new club, believed to be in the United States of America.
The lanky defender is expected to be back in South Africa today.
“Teenage (Hadebe) has asked to be excused from the two sessions today (yesterday).
“He has gone to sign a new contract with a new team. He will be back tomorrow(today),” said Tapera.
The veteran gaffer has been boosted ahead of the two matches against Lesotho and South Africa after winning the May Castle Lager Premier Soccer League May Coach of the Year.
Online Reporter