Thomas Kojo and Vladislav Heric, respective coaches of the misfiring FC AK and Bay United, are optimistic that their particular clubs will make it to the Premier Soccer League.

This after a laborious 0-0 draw in a first-leg promotional play-off match at the Eldorado Park Stadium on Wednesday.

"We will have to work on our finishing," Kojo, who is standing in for Ali Akan, said.

He added: "The pressure to perform is there. The players are very determined to make it to the PSL and they are taking it very seriously.

"These games are like finals to the players. It's a big game and the guys intend to do well but sometimes they get carried away, but it's expected."

Kojo admitted that Akan is being missed by himself and the players.

"We started here last July and we had a good relationship. He got along well with the players and yes, his presence is missed. But we are professionals and we know what is expected of us.

"On Sunday it's our last chance and we're going to win this game," he stated confidently.

His counterpart though believes that the hosts will make it through to the next round.

"We missed a few chances and so did they. And I am not disappointed with this result, I think my players did well," he stated.

Last Sunday Bay United ousted Black Leopards from the PSL and the coach believes that the tie drained his players.

"That was a big match and it was important to us. It took so much energy from the players and I expected this (result). I am happy that we did not concede so we're going home and will have the crowd with us and home ground advantage.

Bay United host FC AK on Sunday in Port Elizabeth and the winner will be promoted to the PSL.

"I think we will play much better back home. We'll have a break and get back to training and refocus our energy, but we'll see on Sunday what happens," he said with a smile.

Sapa