Baroka out to burst Swallows' bubble

Baroka FC will play host to Swallows FC in the DStv Premiership match at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 5pm CAT.

Bakgaga Ba Mphahlele are currently enduring a four-match winless run in the league having succumbed to a 2-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns at home in their previous game on January 9.

The result left Baroka placed eighth on the league standings - three points behind sixth-placed Lamontville Golden Arrows.

Thoka Matsimela, the Baroka head coach, says his charges are learning the hard way following their defeat to Sundowns and he will be hoping that they improve when they face Swallows.

“There is just one thing that my boys must avoid [which is] ball watching," Matsimela said.

"You play against Sundowns, you can see the space, they can keep it so if you ball watch they will punish.

“It’s how the second goal came, they made combination play nearer to the goal-mouth nobody is reacting to close them down. But we are learning the hard way."

Meanwhile, Swallows extended their unbeaten start to the current league season to 10 matches when they held Orlando Pirates to a 1-1 draw away in their previous game on January 10.

As a result, the Beautiful Birds are now joint second with SuperSport United on the league standings - two points behind leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns.

Brandon Truter, the Swallows head coach, was unpleased with his side's performance against Pirates, but he will be happy with the fact that the Soweto side will be well-rested when they face Baroka.

"Yes it's a draw but I am not too happy. There are too many things on the pitch that I am not happy with," Truter said.

"Some of us were off today. I am not too happy but I'll give it to them today. I think if we rest properly and stick to our game plan, then we will be much better. I will take the point."

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Baroka FC:

Ananias Gebhardt: The Namibia international has been enjoying his football lately having netted twice from the left-back position. Gebhardt will be determined to play a vital role in helping his side end their four-match winless run.

Gerald Phiri Jr: The Malawian playmaker recently opened his scoring account for the season against TS Galaxy and he is Baroka's deadball-specialist. Phiri Jr has the ability to inspire Bakgaga Ba Mphahlele to a win over Swallows.

Swallows FC

Joseph Mhlongo: The versatile attacker has been very influential as an impact player coming off the bench having grabbed an assist against Pirates. Mhlongo will be hoping to start against Baroka and help Swallows secure a win in Polokwane.

Ruzaigh Gamildien: The experienced striker saw his three-match scoring run come to an end against Pirates having netted five goals from three games. Gamidlien will be keen to rediscover his scoring touch when they take on Baroka.