While Cape Town Spurs coach Ernst Middendorp is impressed with the side’s improvements, he has reminded his troops that the club is not out of danger and emphasised the need to continue working hard.
The Urban Warriors gave their fight against relegation from the DStv Premiership a massive boost when they registered a 1-0 victory over Royal AM on Tuesday.
Tanzanian midfielder Gabriel Michael scored from the penalty spot in a match at Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg.
This is Spurs’ fifth win of the season and fourth under Middendorp, who took over the reins in November when the Urban Warriors had just three points and now have 18.
The win against Royal reduced the gap between bottom-placed Spurs and Richards Bay FC to five points.
However, all that can still change as Richards Bay, who are on 23 points, are away to Polokwane City at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday.
Middendorp reckons the team has gone through impressive improvements, especially in 2024.
The German-born mentor said if one looks at the matches Spurs have played this year, the team would be in the top eight.
However, that does not mean a lot as in the overall standings Spurs remain at the foot of the table.
“I said it when we started in January, and there’s nothing to correct, that we are chasing the impossible,” said Middendorp after beating Royal AM.
“Nothing has changed, it’s still the same. When I speak about us being in position eight, I’m referring to the games we played in 2024.
“(I’ll say) we have a chance to make it once we are in position 15.
“We are still in the race to make it happen somehow, so it’s a huge compliment for these players.”
The remaining three games are going to be crucial for the Cape-based outfit.
For their next match, Spurs travel to SuperSport United at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday.
After that, they will visit Golden Arrows and end the season by hosting Kaizer Chiefs.
“We need to feel free, have fun, enjoy it and show the energy we have shown here today,” said Middendorp.
“We must prepare everybody to epitomise the individual skills and contribute to the team effort.”
Kick-off is at 19:30.
Ernst Middendorp knows how to dig deep when it is needed most 👇
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) May 7, 2024
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