With the Soweto derby on Saturday, and a lot of pride at stake, This Is Football.Africa decided to talk to a Chiefs legend, who played for the Amakhosi with his heart on his sleeve. Dominic Isaacs takes us through some of his greatest memories wearing the black and gold of Kaizer Chiefs, and takes us back to a fruitful time at Naturena.
Currently, the team is struggling to even look like they could win any silverware. This has led to the squad struggling to make their mark at one of the most followed local teams in South Africa. On Saturday, Kaizer Chiefs are taking on Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium at 15:30, for the 176th time. If they win this encounter then all will be forgiven, and they will be given a little more time to succeed by the Amakosi faithful.
“I was at Chiefs for four years, I won about three cups. I played in a few finals, round about four or five,” Dominic told This Is Football.Africa.
“But my best memory is when we won the Telkom Cup, I played all the games. When you play all the games and you win a cup, you feel like you are really part of it. It’s not like just being in the squad, and then playing like part time. Winning the 2010 Telkom Cup was the best feeling ever for me. When I walked into the Chiefs office there was a trophy room, I said to myself ‘I have to win at least one trophy’. Through God’s will that was made possible, 2010 Telekom Cup was the best. It was also a frustrating year for me, because I came from an injury and I had to fight until an opportunity was given to me, and I grabbed it. I also won the defender of the tournament. I had never won an individual award before that. So ja the best memory for me at Chiefs.”
The first Soweto Derby was first played on the 24th of January 1970, and it separates the whole country into a black and gold half and a black and white half. It brings division between families, and a nightmare for the losers who return to work that following Monday. On the other hand, it brings huge bragging rights for the millions of fans who follow the team that won. The responsibility of that burden may prove too much for some players, and it can be an inspiration for others. Saturday will separate the men from the boys.
Read more:
Dominic Isaacs: He’ll be a hero if he beats Chiefs
Dominic Isaacs: One half Support Chiefs, Rest hate Chiefs
