Chiefs weary of complacency

“Complacency is one of the biggest factors in football and it's very difficult for us to not be complacent after achieving what we did last season,” Gould said.

“So we're just focusing on scoring one goal and then keeping the lead.”

Looking ahead to his side's MTN8 Cup opener against University of Pretoria at the FNB Stadium on Saturday (kick-off at 20:15), Gould said there were no injuries in the squad, but players would be motivated to play even if they were carrying a niggle.

“Everybody want to fight - whether you're injured or not you want to fight."

Gould himself was coming off a knee injury and ran on as a substitute in Chiefs' league game against Black Aces last week.

“I'm getting there, working hard at it, and if I get the nod from the coach I'll be up for it.

“The guys have been playing very well so for me to get my match fitness is key. I'm doing what the coach asks me to do and I'm just happy to be back on the pitch again.”

While Gould spoke about the dangers of complacency, teammate Siphiwe Tshabalala said not underestimating their opponents was another important component of the team's mindset.

“Against Tuks it's a different ball game completely,” said Tshabalala.

“It's a cup competition and there's no second chance.

“We have another opportunity to rectify our mistakes and be a better side. They're a good side and we respect them.”

On Sunday, it is the turn of Orlando Pirates to take on SuperSport United at Mbombela Stadium. Pirates suffered a surprise 1-0 league loss to AmaZulu on Thursday in a game Bucs dominated from start to finish.

The game would also mark their third different competition in a week following their CAF Champions League 3-0 win over Al Ahly in Egypt last Sunday.

“We discussed this in our pre-season so it's nothing new,” said coach Roger De Sa.

“We're ready for it, we've beefed up our squad and we've got enough cover and we also have a lot of players coming back from long-term injuries.

“If there's going to be a busy time, it must be now. Everybody is fit and fresh. We have to juggle a little bit and give some players a rest, and others, like Kermit (Erasmus), will be nice and fresh.”