Maritzburg United will travel to the Peter Mokaba Stadium in their latest DStv Premiership test, with Sekhukhune United being their latest hurdle in looking to avoid the drop this season.
Kick-off is at 5:30pm (SA, GMT +2)
The home team will now face Maritzburg on the back of two consecutive stalemates, namely against Chippa United and Golden Arrows respectively.
In dropping points against the above-mentioned teams, Sekhukhune now find themselves in 9th place on the log and accumulated 29 points from 24 matches played.
Also, Babina Noko showcased inconsistent performances at home in recent game weeks, recording three wins, one loss and one defeat in their last five matches at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Speaking after his side’s 0-0 draw against Arrows, coach Brandon Truter praised right-back Nyiko Mobbie, who he feels should be within the national team fold.
“Being honest, being outside and not having worked with him before, I had my doubts,” Truter said.
“Now, working with the boy and being close up, working with him on a day-to-day basis, I fully understand Hugo Broos’ selection. Tactically, he put his head down and at the same time his tactical understanding, he follows instructions.
“He’s not afraid and technically, he can run the line well and now I know why it is justified call-ups from the national team. He’s a marvellous boy to work with on and off the field. But on the criticism front, it is underserved.”
Maritzburg claimed a 2-1 victory over TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium in their latest league fixture and ended a six-match winless streak in the process.
The Team of Choice currently occupy the PSL relegation play-off position and are two points behind Chippa United who are clear of the drop zone.
Maritzburg United’s form on the road does not make for a good reading either and have picked up just three away wins all season.
Also, Maritzburg and Sekhukhune played to a 1-1 draw in the last time they locked horns, with the game taking place at the Harry Gwala Stadium in August last year.
Reflecting on the task at hand, Maritzburg United managing director Farook Kadodia described the next game as another ‘cup final’ and that it won't be easy playing two away games in succession.
“It’s another ‘cup final’ for us, and we hope to get at least one point from it,” said Maritzburg’s managing director and chairperson Farook Kadodia on Wednesday.
“It’s not easy having two away games in a row, but it’s something we knew about right from the beginning of the season when the fixtures came out — we also had to visit Pirates and SuperSport consecutively — and could not change anything.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH:
Sekhukhune United:
Sibusiso Vilakazi:With the attacking midfielder getting accustomed to his new surroundings, the former Mamelodi Sundowns man showed glimpses of his former self. With the Team of Choice likely to employ a safe approach, Vila will be a crucial component breaking down the opposition defence.
Nyiko Mobbie:The Babina Noko right-back could well have a point to prove in the coming fixtures, as he looks to establish himself as one of the best full-backs in the country. Able to bomb up and down the pitch, Mobbie has the ability to influence his team both in defense and attack.
Maritzburg United:
Travis Graham: In coming up against a midfield who enjoy keeping the ball for prolonged periods, Graham’s ability to break up play will be crucial for the Team of Choice. The former Ajax Cape Town captain is also one of the most experienced players at Maritzburg and will be tasked to guide his midfield department.
Jose Ali Meza:In getting his name on the scoresheet in side’s most recent win, the South American will now go into the Sekhukhune tie with confidence. Meza is known for being a hard running attacker, with his work rate being something to note for the Babina Noko defensive set-up.