Kaizer Chiefs forward Samir Nurkovic believes his side showed real hunger and determination to collect all three points against Highlands Park last Sunday.

The 27-year-old made his debut during Amakhosi’s 3-2 victory over the Lions of the North as they collected three points at the Makhulong Stadium in Tembisa.

The Serbia international lasted the entire 90 minutes and played a part in Lebogang Manyama’s equalising goal in the 50th minute.

‘It was a great start for us on Sunday,’ Nurkovic told his club’s official website. ‘I could sense from the beginning of the week that I might make a starting lineup. We trained hard and all the players showed hunger. We all wanted to earn a place in the starting XI.

‘As a professional player, you can see in training if you are in the coach’s plans. Usually, you get to see in training that the coach is planning certain combinations for the match. The spirit in the camp is very high.’

Over the course of his career, Nurkovic has netted a total of 65 goals and assisted in a further nine from 137 appearances in all competitions playing for the likes of KFC Komarno, FK Pohronie, FK Slovan Duslo Sala, SK Slovan HAC, FC ViOn Zlate Moravce-Vrable, FC VSS Kosice, DAC Dunajska Streda and Chiefs.

‘I’ve been in the game for long enough. I have twelve years’ experience in the game. I am no longer stressing when I face the possibility of playing the match. I felt good from the camp as it offers camaraderie in the team. I try to speak to family, checking their health and wellness before the game. That helps me ease the nerves and be prepared for the match,’ he added.

There were many positive reviews from Amakhosi faithful and the media of his performance on Sunday.

‘I remember driving towards the stadium,’ recalls Nurkovic. ‘There was so much buzz in the area [Tembisa] and was good to see the supporters lining the streets. It made me eager to start the match. With me, everything disappears when the referee blows the whistle. It becomes between me, the player and the win.

‘First game is always tough. And as new a player, it is important to start with a win. We deserved the win. We worked hard for it.’

Nurkovic will be looking forward to playing in his first home game when Amakhosi come up against Black Leopards in the Absa Premiership at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday.