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Red hot Stellies eye Polokwane City scalp

football28 September 2024 08:00| © Backpage TXT
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Stellenbosch players celebrates @ gallo images

Fresh off a convincing 3-0 win against Cape Town City in their latest Betway Premiership assignment, Stellenbosch FC will now shift their attention to Polokwane City in a keenly anticipated clash at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday evening.

Kick-off is at 5:30pm (CAT, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM

After bagging consecutive victories against AmaZulu and Magesi in their opening set of Betway Premiership games, Polokwane City’s positive form came to a grinding halt in a 3-0 loss against Orlando Pirates last time out.

With six points from three matches played so far, Rise & Shine currently occupy 5th position on the table, while Stellenbosch trail in an unfamiliar 10th place.

The Cape Winelands side played only two league games so far this season, given their commitments in the CAF Confederations Cup.

Nevertheless, Stellies head into their next League encounter on the back of an emphatic 3-0 win against Cape Town City at Athlone Stadium on Wednesday, the 25th of September.

WHAT WAS SAID

Reflecting on his side’s latest performance, Polokwane City mentor Phuti Mohafe hinted at employing a defensive approach against bigger teams in the league.

“First, you have to look at the stature of a team that you're playing with,” Mohafe said.

“In playing Orlando Pirates, with us being a smaller team, you won't go all out against them pound for pound. So, you have to play cautiously... sit back a little bit, defend a little bit and see what they give you.”

Stellies coach Steve Barker on the other hand, believes that his side are growing mentally following their resounding win against their Cape rivals.

“I thought we saw out the game really well and didn’t give them too many opportunities in the last 15 to 20 minutes,” Barker uttered.

“We put in a mature performance, and to see out the game and keep a clean sheet I think is a credit to the team. I think it shows that they are growing in their mentality.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Polokwane City: Cole Alexander – As a powerful runner in midfield, Alexander will have his hands full this weekend, given Stellenbosch’s efficient front foot style of football. The former Kaizer Chiefs star is currently one of Rise & Shine’s most experienced campaigners and will be expected to lead the midfield department this weekend.

Stellenbosch FC: Fawaaz Basadien – After scoring a goal from his own half against Cape Town City, Basadien’s confidence will be through the roof heading into this weekend’s Betway Premiership fixture. While the 27-year-old is able to trot up the pitch, Stellenbosch will also hope to bank on his defensive qualities during sticky situations away from home.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Last four league results:

2019/20 Polokwane City 0-2 Stellenbosch FC

2019/20 Stellenbosch FC 1-0 Polokwane City

2023/24 Polokwane City 1-0 Stellenbosch FC

2023/24 Stellenbosch FC 5-0 Polokwane City

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