The Marumo Gallants face a litmus test in an intriguing Betway Premiership fixture against the vengeful Polokwane City on Sunday, 15 December. The two teams will face off again in the Peter Mokaba Stadium, where the Gallants emerged victorious while campaigning in the Carling Black Label Knockout Cup in October.
In the cup match, the Bahlabane Ba Ntwa came from behind to beat City 3 – 2, and progressed as far as the semifinal of the tournament. Both sides are spirited following their emphatic wins in their respective league matches.
The Gallants outclassed rookies Magesi by 3 – 1 in a fixture in Bloemfontein, while City demolished Kaizer Chiefs 2 – 0. City will take to the battle field seeking to avenge their defeat in the tournament.
Dan Malesela, coach of the Gallants, hopes his warriors’ mental strength will prevail against informed City.
He is seeking to continue the onslaught underlined with two 1– 0 wins, against SuperSport United and Magesi.
The victory against the newcomers saw the Gallants drift away from the dreaded relegation zone, with everything indicating they could finish in the top-eight bracket.
For future matches, Malesela has stressed the importance of his charges improving their decision-making skills and converting scoring opportunities created.
The master tactician of offensive football and compact conceded the team’s inability to convert goal-scoring opportunities, and highlighted the ongoing work to sharpen the striking department.
“We need to accumulate points now – a top-eight finish is possible with the performance of the team,” said Malesela.
“Our focus is to deal with the phase we are in now, getting away from the bottom half.”
