Maritzburg, Stars out to protect run
Maritzburg United and Free State Stars will be looking to extend their unbeaten run in the Absa Premiership when they meet at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Friday night, kick-off at 20h00 (CAT, SA, GMT+2).
United started the season with an away draw but have since picked up two successive wins, the latest being a 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns away from home.
The Team of Choice are currently in second place on the log with seven points, but utility player Ryan de Jongh says they will not take anything for granted against a hardworking Stars side.
“We have started well but it’s still early so we are not getting carried away with our recent results,” said De Jongh.
"The confidence is high and it’s a home game for us; so far we have a good record there, but we know Stars are going to come at us.
"Last season they beat us at home but this is a new season and we have a lot to play for; we're not going to sit back.
"Like us, they are unbeaten this season and I think it's going to be a physical game, but as long as we maintain our discipline and use our chances, I think we'll do well."
Stars, on the other hand, started the season with wins over Bidvest Wits and Chippa United before being held to a 0-0 draw at home by Kaizer Chiefs in their last league match.
Steve Komphela’s men are currently in third place on the table with seven points, but having scored less goals than their Kwazulu-Natal opponents.
However, attacking midfielder Noah Chivuta believes they can overpower his former club in their own stadium.
"We respect Maritzburg as a team but we will certainly not give them any respect on the day. Yes they have had a good start to the season but we are not fazed by that,” said Chivuta.
“We will go there and play our normal game.
"For the fact that they are yet to beat us in the history of their club it will be exciting and again it will be one hell of a game.”
Last season Ea Lla Koto won this fixture 2-0 win Edward Manqele and Katlego Mashego finding the back of the net.
