THOHOYANDOU - Black Leopards' boss announced that they are going to honour their loyal supporters by giving them an opportunity to watch soccer at its best, when they play against Dynamos of Zimbabwe on July 19.

According to Mr David Thidiela, the match will be played at Thohoyandou Stadium. Thidiela said they were going to play Dynamos in order to test their strength before the start of the season.

"We are bringing a team of Dynamos' calibre, a very strong team, for our fans to witness a good game. We want to test our strength against a bigger team like Dynamos, who are physically strong and tough. We also want to showcase our new players Justice Sithole, Nhlahla Mathebula from Kaizer Chiefs, Nkhiphitheni Matombo from Manning Rangers and Alphas Maluleke from Dynamos of Giyani." He added that they have employed David Byrne to assist coach Walter Rautman. Moses Louw from Moroka Swallows is also the new full-time physiotherapist, he said.

Thidiela said they have beefed up the squad in order to avoid the bad run they suffered last season. "People said a lot and complained about our bad start last season, but we took things for granted and we nearly got relegated, until Rautman came in. So we decided to extend Rautman's start and give him all the necessary support, because we want him to continue where he left off last season." Thidiela said it is important to reward the loyal fans who supported the team during the difficult times last season. "They also showed the same support by giving us the most votes in the Telkom Charity Cup. This gives the players and management a lot of confidence. This season we want to entertain our fans. We are aware that we are not alone," he said.

Thidiela, who has already donated more than R100 000 to different charity organisations in the province, urged other charities who had not submitted their applications to do so. He also invited local business people to use Leopards as their marketing tool by advertising during local soccer matches.

For more information, phone 011 834 95 71/2 of fax at 011 834 9570 for the attention of Michelle Stokes, the brand manager of the team.