Sitting at the summit, Orlando Pirates will travel to the Harry Gwala Stadium on Sunday evening as they prepare to take on Maritzburg United in the DStv Premiership.
Kick-off is at 5:30pm CAT (SA, GMT+2).
The Team of Choice face the tough task of keeping the league’s most in form team at bay this weekend. In doing so, Martizburg head into the game on the back of a 1-0 away defeat against Royal AM.
Before the Thwihli Thwahla fixture, Maritzburg recorded their only win of the league season in a 2-1 victory over Chippa United at home. In the five games played so far, the Team of Choice amassed just six points out of a possible 18.
However, Maritzburg can draw positivity from their form at the Harry Gwala Stadium. Proving to be a tough place for teams to get results, Martizburg are unbeaten at home this season and are on a six-match unbeaten streak on their own patch.
Speaking ahead of the game, goalkeeper King Ndlovu mentioned that preparations for the Bucs game have gone smoothly and that they aim to maintain their unbeaten status at home.
“The preparations are going very well,” Ndlovu said.
“Everyone is fit and sharp. So, we’re looking forward to Sunday’s game against Pirates.
"We want to remain unbeaten at home."
Pirates, on the other hand, recently recorded two victories on the trot, seeing off Marumo Gallants and Royal AM in the process. Coach Jose Riveiro has adjusted well to the South African game and they are unbeaten in their last four encounters.
After six matches, Pirates lead the way in the DStv Premiership, jotting down three wins, two draws and the single defeat.
Also, Pirates have an impressive away form sheet in all competitions and have not lost on the road in each of their last four encounters.
After their recent league win, Riveiro mentioned that his side take to their tasks one match at a time and that they have to enjoy ‘every good moment’ throughout the season.
“We don’t see anybody else than the next opponent,” Riveiro said.
"So we don’t think about Mamelodi or who knows who’s going to be there on top, and we need to challenge, we don’t know. So far, we’re on top of the table.
“We’re extremely happy because we have to enjoy every good moment during the season.”
In the head-to-head battle, Pirates have the clear advantage, particularly in the last five league games. Other than the single stalemate, Pirates have four victories ticked off next to their name. In the most recent tie between the two, Pirates recorded maximum points in a 4-1 at the Orlando Stadium in May this year.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Maritzburg United
Brandon Theron: The adventurous full-back is unafraid of taking the game to the opposition and likes to get into attacking areas. With Pirates willing to push numbers forward, Theron’s pace in counter-attacking situations could be key to Maritzburg making the most of their opportunities.
King Ndlovu:Coming up against a team beaming with attacking threats, Ndlovu will have to be on his guard. Known for making bold decisions in his area, Nldovu’s shot-stopping ability will ultimately be counted on.
Orlando Pirates
Bienvenu Eva Nga: While he may not have lit up the goal-scoring charts, Eva Nga’s physicality is an important component to Riverio’s side. Able to hassle central defenders, Eva Nga is willing to create openings for his teammates.
Miguel Timm: Timm has been one of the Soweto giants best players this season and has been a constant figure in the middle of the park. With the ball at his feet, Timm could starve Martizburg of possession and dictate matters in midfield.