In what promises to be a riveting encounter, SuperSport United will take on Golden Arrows in a high-stakes DStv Premiership match on Tuesday at 17h00 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
With their sights set on challenging the league leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns, SuperSport aim to maintain their unbeaten streak in a bid to close the gap at the top.
SuperSport’s unyielding start to the season was highlighted by their triumphant comeback against Stellenbosch, securing a 2-1 victory after conceding an early goal at the Danie Craven Stadium. The Pretoria powerhouse’s impressive form have granted them back-to-back wins, inching within five points of their local rivals Sundowns, while still possessing a game in hand.
Coach Gavin Hunt critically assessed the playing field following their hard-fought 1-0 win over Cape Town City at the TUT Stadium last week. He lauded his players for their adaptability on yet another challenging surface in Stellenbosch. “In these conditions, it was destined to be a battle. And indeed, it was a battle. Our performance had its moments, though the surface hampered fluid play. Nevertheless, we adjusted,” Hunt noted.
Hunt further remarked, “Our opponents frequently disrupted our rhythm with turnovers. I was slightly disappointed by our lack of final product. Overall, battling through and securing a victory in this environment is commendable. Few teams, I believe, would emerge victorious under such circumstances.”
Midfielder Grant Margeman has emerged as a pivotal figure for SuperSport, recently netting the match-winning goal against Stellenbosch. His consistent contributions have bolstered the team’s performance. Additionally, Gamphani Lungu, the Zambian talent, has solidified his role in Gavin Hunt’s line-up, showcasing remarkable consistency.
On the opposing side, Golden Arrows’ coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi acknowledged the importance of goalkeeper Ismail Watenga as they prepare to face SuperSport. Arrows rebounded from a disheartening 4-0 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns with an exhilarating 3-2 triumph over newly-promoted Polokwane City. This victory propelled Arrows to fourth place in the standings, having accrued seven points from their first four matches.
Nevertheless, Arrows experienced some tense moments when goalkeeper Watenga struggled with a free-kick during the match. This lapse allowed an unmarked Lebohang Nkaki to head the ball into the net, reducing the goal deficit to one.
Vilakazi expressed his disappointment and highlighted the need for Watenga to enhance his presence in the box. “I reminded him that he’s the tallest player on the field, with the ability to catch and command set-pieces,” Vilakazi shared.
Vilakazi elaborated, “While he made valuable saves and contributed significantly, his challenge lies in handling crosses. We’ll engage with him and the goalkeeper coach to refine this aspect.”
Arrows’ goal distribution this season has showcased the team’s collective prowess, with Themba Mantshiyane, Lungelo Nguse, and Nduduzo Sibiya all finding the back of the net against Polokwane. Previously, Ryan Moon and Olwethu Ncube shone in the victory over Richards Bay.
Anticipation is mounting as SuperSport United and Golden Arrows prepare to clash in what is undoubtedly a match set to deliver intensity, strategy, and a display of solid football prowess.
