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Wits finally return to league action

football07 November 2019 14:40| © Backpage TXT
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Wits © Gallo Images

Bidvest Wits will chase a fifth successive win in the Absa Premiership when they host SuperSport United at Bidvest Stadium on Friday evening. Kick-off is at 8pm CAT (SA, GMT+2).

Wits were last in league action more than a month ago, recording a fourth straight win (and a fifth from six Premiership outings) when they defeated Chippa United 1-0 away on 1 October. Defender Buhle Mkhwanazi scored a late winner for the Clever Boys.

Caf Confederations Cup football has taken up much of their time over the last month, with a 6-0 thumping of UD Songo booking their place in the group stages for the very first time.

For head coach Gavin Hunt their progress on the continent will require a special balancing act as they now - for the time being - shift focus back to the league, where they hope to close the gap on Kaizer Chiefs atop the log standings.

"Every competition we play in we want to do well, no matter what it is. It's a tough project but we will do our best," said Hunt.

"We have a backlog of league games, so we'll see. The change in the CAF calendar should help a bit with the schedule," he concluded.

SuperSport, by contrast, were in league action as recently as Tuesday, when they were held 0-0 at Mbombela Stadium by Golden Arrows – a third straight draw. United have claimed five points from as many away matches this season.

For Matsatsantsa the honeymoon period after their MTN8 glory has now truly worn off as they now aim to climb up the log standings.

"It was a game where we played just 70 minutes, we had opportunities, but we let go of the game," said SuperSport boss Kaitano Tembo following their goalless stalemate earlier this week.

"It is our third game in nine days, but yes we are coming up against a tough team, a strong team. We need to recover and see what happens on Friday," he concluded.

STAR PLAYERS TO WATCH

Bidvest Wits

Gift Motupa: After four goals against UD Songo in the Confederations Cup, Hunt will find it hard not to include the forward in his starting XI. Goals have not been a problem for the Clever Boys this season and Wits will be eager to continue that trend against a side that have beaten them in Braamfontein already this season.

Thulani Hlatshwayo: Tyson has played every minute in the league for the Clever Boys this season, and will be key as they aim to mount a serious title push this campaign. Against a SuperSport side filled with attacking talent, Hlatshwayo is in for a busy day at the office and will need to keep his fellow defenders on their toes.

SuperSport United

Ronwen Williams: Wits head into the clash on a wave of confidence and not struggling for goals. Hence, Williams could be in for a tough night, but it nothing he isn't used to as he continues to go from strength to strength. The shot-stopper is quickly establishing himself as arguably the best goalkeeper in South Africa and at only 27, his best years are still ahead of him.

Sipho Mbule: If SuperSport are to dismantle an experienced Wits defence, Mbule will have to give those in front of him - Bradley Grobler and Thamsanqa Gabuza - good attacking ball to finish off chances. The creative midfielder has enjoyed a superb season thus far but will need to polish his game if he is to make the next step.

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