SuperSport United leading goal scorer, Evans Rusike, file photo
by SAVIOUS KWINIKA
JOHANNESBURG – A Tshwane derby featuring defending champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Supersport United is the highlight of the resumption of the South African Premiership this weekend.
The two sides clash at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday on the back of what has been disappointing campaigns by their standards, particularly in the cup competitions.
The Kaitano Tembo-coached United and Pitso Mosimane-led Sundowns have played 10 games each with 18 points apiece.
They are five points behind log leaders Orlando Pirates who have played three matches more.
The Tshwane duo thus will be counting on winning their games in hand to dislodge ‘The Buccaneers’ off the summit of the 16-team table.
United will be looking to their hitman, Zimbabwean prolific striker Evans Rusike for maximum points.
He leads an attacking line that also features Aubrey Modiba, Thabo Mnyamane, Thuso Phala, James Keene, Bradley Grobler and Fagrie Lakay.
A lot will also depend on a midfield department controlled by captain Dean Furman, Teboho Mokoena and evergreen Reneilwe Letsholonyane.
SuperSport can only underestimate Sundowns at their own peril.
The holders are on rebuilding exercise following the departure of ace strikers Khama Billiat and Percy Tau.
The Brazilians remain a formidable force nonetheless with players such as midfield maestros Hlompho Kekana, Andile Jali and Lebohang Maboe.
Internationals Toni Silva, Gastón Sirino, Anthony Laffor, goalkeeper Denis Onyango and Jeremy Brockie are key to securing maximum points.
Several Premiership matches have been lined up prior to the Tshwane derby.
On Saturday, Highlands Park host Cape Town City at Makhulong Stadium.
Golden Arrows entertain beleaguered Kaizer Chiefs at Princess Magogo Stadium in Durban.
Pirates, fresh from booking a berth in next month’s Telkm Knockout final at the expense of Chiefs, welcome Maritzburg United at Orlando Stadium in Soweto while at Thohoyandou Stadium, Black Leopards battle out with Bidvest Wits, knocked out by Baroka in the cup.
Full fixture:
SATURDAY, 1 December 2018
Highlands Park Vs Cape Town City FC, Makhulong Stadium (15h30)
Golden Arrows Vs Kaizer Chiefs, Princess Magogo Stadium (18h00)
Orlando Pirates Vs Maritzburg United, Orlando Stadium (20h15)
Black Leopards Vs Bidvest Wits, Thohoyandou Stadium (20h15)
SUNDAY, 2 December 2018
SuperSport United Vs Mamelodi Sundowns, Lucas Moripe Stadium (15h30)
Bloemfontein Celtic Vs Polokwane City, Dr Molemela Stadium (15h30) .
– CAJ News
