Inspired by Baartman, Velebayi looks to improve his numbers against Sundowns

Baartman continued with his good start to the new season, scoring his first goal in Chiefs colours as they defeated Sekhukhune United 2-0 in a Betway Premiership clash at FNB stadium. 

Velebayi, who just like Baartman came through the Spurs (formerly Ajax Cape Town) structures, and he is feeling inspired by his teammates’ early-season exploits...

"Baartman getting his first goal was inspiring for me, and it was also a proud moment because we've come along way with one another. He is like a brother to me."

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Ahead of tomorrow’s crunch league game against Mamelodi Sundowns, Velebayi, who featured in 15 matches in all competitions last season is hoping that he can make a breakthrough and improve his numbers this season. 

During the pre-season in Spain, he was scoring regularly and is hoping that he can get off the mark early as well in the official competitions, starting with tomorrow’s game...

"After a decent pre-season I'm just looking for consistency. We are playing against the African champions and I can only imagine how tough that is going to be, but we are going into this game with confidence after winning our opening two league games."

Da Cruz has seemingly taken a liking to both Velebayi and Baartman, as they have featured prominently since the beginning of the season. 

The 23-year-old says the Frenchman is a very demanding coach that seeks brave players...

"I've picked up from coach Fernando that he is very demanding, because even when you think you are performing at your best, he always wants that 1% extra from you," explained Velebayi.

Another former Spurs teammate who has since joined Velebayi and Baartman at Chiefs is South African junior international Faiz Abrahams, who is on loan from Stellenbosch FC, with Chiefs retaining an option to buy him.