South China hitman Kezman's goal is opener

Striker Mateja Kezman will be looking for his first goal in Hong Kong as South China take on arch-rivals Kitchee in their League Cup semi-final at Hong Kong Stadium today.

The former Chelsea player has started three times since his arrival in late January, but has yet to open his account.

'Kitchee are doing very well in attack but their defence is not that good,' said Kezman, who was the Dutch First Division top scorer before joining the Premier League side. 'I always want to score for the club, but of course a victory against Kitchee will come first.'

The 31-year-old Serb, who was substituted in all his three outings with South China, said he felt no pressure, but admitted he had to improve his fitness.

'There is always room for improvement in a new environment and I am working hard in the gymnasium to raise my fitness level,' he said. 'South China are a good team with many good players and I enjoy playing with them very much.'

Kezman has already earned high praise from his coach Chan Ho-yin, who said he was a model professional.

'He works very hard on and off the pitch and is always eager to know more about the team so that he can blend in as quick as possible,' said the coach. 'I don't worry too much about him as he is a quality player. It is just a matter of time before he regains his scoring touch and it won't be too long, especially after going through two tough matches with us in the Asian Challenge Cup.'