AmaZulu desperate to pick up league points after cup exit

Usuthu were hoping to go into the clash as Carling Knockout Cup finalists, but losing 3-2 to TS Galaxy at the weekend means they host Downs a little deflated.

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Martin has switched focus to the league, where AmaZulu find themselves outside the top-eight – a position the coach says doesn’t align with their targets. 

"We need to know that we are playing for our futures. If we all want to play for the same objectives as last season, being there in position eight, nine, 10, 11, 12," said Martin.

"Or maybe not to do well and then drop to 13th and starting looking at relegation and being afraid, maybe it's what can happen if we are not focussed."

Perhaps indirectly suggesting some players are not pulling their weight, Martin already has an eye on the January transfer window. 

"We are willing to at least fight for top-eight, and being a consistent team in the top-eight while waiting for the January market to get some signings that can strengthen the team more because we need that," he added.

"I think it could be enough motivation for all of us. We are coming here [as the technical team] to try and reach the next level with this team, and from where we're coming, we are now in that process.

"I think sometimes we deserved much more than we got in many games, but this is also part of the game – when you have that quality that can win games by itself, it's easier to be in the top part of the table."

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