Tuks, Thanda closing in on Rovers
University of Pretoria and Thanda Royal Zulu will be aiming to continue with their winning ways in order to catch up with current National first Division leaders Blackburn Rovers.
Both sides will be paying close attention when Rovers host African Warriors at Buffalo City on Friday. The Free State side has been stubborn on the road with their last four away games ending in draws, a result that would suit the chasing pack.
However, Tuks will still have to win a tricky encounter against United FC at the Botshabelo Stadium on Sunday afternoon, while Thanda Royal Zulu also have to travel to Phuthaditjhaba to face Carara Kicks who are trying to get their season back on track under new coach William Mugeyi.
On Saturday, FC AK will want to recover from their midweek loss to United FC when they entertain Atlie FC at the Eldorado Park. The visitors have recently parted ways with coach Kenny Ndlazi, leaving his assistant Sello Chokoe as the interim coach, something that could work for or against the team.
Chippa United, who have quietly worked their way to 5th spot on the log, will travel to the Lucas Moripe Stadium to face the inconsistent Bay United. Umlilo have only picked up two wins this season which explains their position in the bottom half of the table.
Still on Saturday, Mpumalanga will be divided when Sivutsa Stars host Black Aces at Kanyamazane Stadium. Both sides have been inconsistent this season but this local derby could be the turning point.
Despite being 11 points off the pace Vasco Da Gama are still considered as part of the favourites in the NFD because of their two games in hand, however, Tony de Nobrega’s men will be looking to turn those games into points to keep up with the leaders.
This Sunday they have a tough encounter against FC Cape Town at Parrow Park; a match that promises to be a thriller with the Cape side trying to extend their winning streak.
Also on Sunday, bottom-of-the-log Witbank Spurs host Dynamos at the Puma Stadium. Spurs held both Thanda Royal Zulu and Arican Warriors to goalless draws in their two outings but they need to start winning to escape the relegation zone, especially when playing at home.