Milford FC chairman and head coach Dr Xanti Pupuma has explained the key factors behind his side’s rapid adaptation to the Betway Premiership following their promotion from the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
The KwaZulu-Natal outfit faced a tough task in their top-flight debut, playing the defending champions Orlando Pirates in their opening fixture. The Buccaneers walked away with a 2-0 victory.
But the league newcomers were never discouraged by the loss to Pirates. Milford bounced back by securing their historic first top-flight victory, with a 1-0 win over Siwelele FC, followed by a 2-1 triumph over Kruger United.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, 26 August, they battled to a 0-0 draw against Polokwane City FC at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
The decent run leaves the club fifth on the Betway Premiership table with seven points from four outings—just three points behind the log leaders Pirates.
WHY MILFORD FC ARE ADAPTING FAST TO TOP-FLIGHT FOOTBALL
Speaking to journalists in Polokwane, Dr Pupuma highlighted core squad continuity and tactical familiarity as the main drivers behind their satisfying start.
“I think most of the players have been together for a long time. They know each other and also me, still the coach of the club. I think we have spent almost a season and a half together, so they understand my thinking and how we want to play,” said Dr Pupuma.
MILFORD FC PREPARING FOR HIGH-PRESSURE FOOTBALL
Addressing their tactical approach, the Milford mentor revealed that their willingness to embrace high-pressure situations stems directly from their training ground routine.
“We train to be under pressure because we don’t mind being pressed and being put under pressure, and playing in compromised positions. We look to utilise and take risks from such positions. So we will play like this until the end of the season,” he added.
In addition, Dr Pupuma emphasised that minimal transfer activity helped preserve their team chemistry.
“Considering that we came through the playoffs, we are literally the weakest team in the league. However, we started okay, and we have done well at home, and now we have earned a point away from home. If we can work on our home form and maintain it, I’m pretty sure we will be okay,” he stated.
“Also, the fact that we didn’t make many changes and added about four to five players has helped us. Most of the regulars have been playing together for almost two seasons, which makes it easier and helps us maintain that continuity.”
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