Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy salivates on Carling Knockout incentives - 'I wish I was still playing'

The new Carling Knockout format has seen Man of the Match recipients walk home with a massive R100,000 prize.

Magesi FC goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze bagged R400,000 for his exploits as he led the Premier Soccer League newbies to a shocking 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns in the final.

Former South Africa international Benni McCarthy wishes he was still playing since players have an extra reason to give their best on the pitch.

“I wish I was still playing, where do you see an R100,000 Man of the Match bonus, that’s more than what players earn at some clubs,” the 47-year-old told the media.

“So it’s a great incentive but as I said, the exciting part is now that all teams can experience the involvement of being part of the Carling Cup, not just the Soweto giants, which was amazing for while it was there but now to give other teams opportunities."

McCarthy was left impressed with Magesi's exploits and hopes they can replicate the same in the Premier Soccer League.

“Now you seeing David slaughter Goliath situation, because you know in the league for the past four seasons it’s just been one-way traffic, Sundowns has completely dominated the league and no other teams have really got close to them.

“But in the Cup competitions it’s an opportunity in a one-off game you have a couple of games and you find yourself in a cup final but in the league, it doesn’t happen that way," McCarthy added.

“So it’s a nice platform where teams can get involved and there you have it, you have the Magesi’s who surprised loads of people but now people are now excited about Magesi now because of what they showcased in the Carling Knockout.

“Hopefully they can move up in the league because we want our league as exciting as the Carling Knockout Cup was," he concluded.

Magesi will have another moment for glory on December 21 when they play the Carling Knockout All-Stars at the Orlando Stadium.

The fixture will give the fans an opportunity to watch their favourite players, as voted by them.

Dikwena tsa Meetse's goalkeeper Chipezeze will have another chance to grab another R100,000 Man of the Match prize by inspiring his team to victory.

Before that, coach Clinton Larsen has to ensure he gets a way of ensuring Magesi register positive results consistently in the PSL.

Prior to the PSL game against Marumo Gallants scheduled for Saturday, Magesi have registered one win in six league outings, three draws and as many losses which puts them in the relegation zone.