Bernard Parker dreams of Nedbank Cup glory with TS Galaxy

The Rockets host SAFA Second Division outfit Jacksa Spears in their quarter-final clash at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga on Sunday afternoon.

Despite the gulf in divisions, Parker says his side is taking nothing for granted, pointing out that lower-league teams often thrive in knockout tournaments where pressure can quickly shift onto the favourites.

"We have done our homework, they have, and we all know what can happen and what has happened in the past in the Nedbank Cup," said the Galaxy assistant.

The former Kaizer Chiefs striker believes Galaxy are capable of going all the way in the tournament, but only if they remain disciplined and focused on the immediate challenge ahead.

"In the cup we are also well aware that we have a strong possibility of going all the way to the final. The reason is that we all know the big teams have been surprised and we also don't want to be surprised by the opponents that we are going to face," he said.

"But right now, the focus is on Jacksa Spears this weekend, and the main focus is for us to make sure that we get the team back to our performing level."

The competition holds a special place in Galaxy's history after their famous triumph in 2019 when they stunned Chiefs in the final. Parker was part of the Amakhosi side that suffered that defeat and now hopes to experience the other side of the story.

"Unfortunately, I was on the losing side then, but this time around I want to be on the winning side as a coach and get a Nedbank Cup winning medal as a coach, which I know is possible," he said.

Parker also noted that only a handful of players from that historic squad remain at the club, including centre-back Macbeth Mahlangu, meaning many current players are still chasing their first major success with the Rockets.

"The main reason and importance as a club is to make sure we repeat history. By making sure we repeat history, we have to take it game by game," Parker concluded.