Maritzburg United are still winless in the 2018/19 season, but goalkeeper Richard Ofori can see light at the end of the tunnel.
The Team of Choice visit Bloemfontein Celtic at Dr Molemela Stadium today in an Absa Premiership battle for maximum points.
United have been going through testing times during their opening fixtures, but there is good news, Ofori has kept back-to-back clean sheets against Kaizer Chiefs and Bidvest Wits in theeir previous two matches, and he is confident that soon the sun will shine for United.
“This is not a time to panic because we’ve only played four games,” he said.
“Last season we did well but the most important thing is to keep the tempo high. We are down right now but we are on the right track. We will get back. We are not to far from achieving a positive result.”
United are languishing at the bottom of the PSL table, with just two points from four games.
The team are playing good football but positive results have eluded them thus far.
“Sometimes it is like that. We’ve played four games and lost two in the league,” said Ofori.
“It is not easy to build from last season’s performances. Most of the teams know Maritzburg United now, and they prepare well for us.
“It is not that easy. What we need to do is to be focused,” he added.
United finished fourth last season and reached the Nedbank Cup final.
“It is tough, I told the guys that things won’t be the same as last season. Most of the teams treat us like a big team now. That’s why we need to step up our game,” Ofori said.
The Ghanaian first-choice goal-minder is also determined to put in a challenge to the likes of Itumeleng Khune, Denis Onyango and Darren Keet.
“As a player your aim is to be amongst those who are the best players in the league. I need to concentrate and keep the guys going. I’m the last man and I need to challenge the other guys.
“But I have to put in for my team first. Without the effort of my teammates, I’m nothing,” explained Ofori, who was nominated for the Goalkeeper of the Season last campaign.
Ofori will have to show the same attitude today as Maritzburg seek to stun an unbeaten Celtic side.
“We need to move as a team. We need to move in unity to lift Maritzburg United high,” Ofori concluded.
Today:
Bloemfontein Celtic v Maritzburg United, SuperSport United v Black Leopards (both 3pm kick-offs)