WeeklySA_Admin
MFC: Fireworks expected when Tuks lock horns with cross town rivals The Romans
By Masoja Cele
In most instances derbies defines who own the bragging rights between two sworn rivals. The adage will be upheld on Sunday between University of Pretoria FC and cross town rivals Pretoria Callies during the Motsepe Foundation Championship at Tuks Stadium, Pretoria. Kick-off 15:30.
AmaTuks have lost the sting that made them fearless in the past 3 years in the Championship. The Hartfield based side qualified for the promotional tourney in 3 seasons in succession.
First attempt was in 2020/21 season and they lost to eventual winners Moroka Swallows in the final, the following calendar year Tuks failed to reach the finals with Richards Bay winning promotion and last season it was the Rich Boyz again reclaiming their position in the Premiership having ended the campaign on position 15th.
But, Tukkies on all occasion would falter towards the end. This season Tuks performance have gone in downward spiral.
Perhaps, the truth is for Tuks to play for survival to save their stay in the Championship. Long serving coach, Tlisane Motaung will have to prepare and motivate his players to show more grit and be more resilient in their 14 remaining matches. Influential long serving midfield veteran Samuel Julies would be key against Callies.
The Kimberly born midfielder has had a significant role in Tuks quest to challenge for promotion to the top league.
Julies influence in and off the field has rubbed off to youngsters like Matome Rangata, Kgomotso Mosadi and Luke Daniels.
The trio has gradually adjusted to AmaTuks system, thanks to the likes of Julies and trhe technical team. However playing against Callies won’t be an easy task.
Callies is documented as one of the oldest team in the country that has produce fine legends that commanded huge respect and recognition from all around the world. Would the current package of the Romans players emulate or equal the competence of the old generation.
Callies fashioned great legends notably the legendary Mecro ‘’Masterpieces’’Moripe, one of South Africa’s most gifted player, Jan ‘’Malombo’’Lichaba, Patrick ‘’LTD’’Molala, Patrick ‘’Frelimo’’ Dibetla, George’’Mastermind’’Kgobe just to mention a few. These are the legends who made the Atteridgeville based side untouchable.
The Romans are uncomfortable perched 12th on Championship table. But, it seem a bit strange that they in the bottom half of the table.
Last Friday they were pitted against the Betway Premiership side Marumo Gallants in the Nedbank Last 32 at home. The Romans showed no respect or fear for Gallants. They stretched the more experience Gallants in all channels.
To be honest they didn’t deserve to lose against Gallants. They played their hearts out but luck deserted them.
The Premiership side scored their solitary goal deep into referee’s optional time. Certainly, if Callies could just transform their Friday Nedbank Cup performance they dished out against Gallants into their Championship matches then they will be hard to beat, more especially at home.
The Romans Italian coach Fabio Lopez will pin his hopes on his experience goalkeeper King Ndlovu. The former Black Leopards short stopper made numerous saves that were relentlessly directed in his direction.
Former Kaizer Chiefs left back Samson Ntiya Ntiya showed his experience and commanded his duties with aplomb.
Based on their Nedbank Cup excellent performance Ndlovu and Ntiya Ntiya will be the key players for the Lopez led side.
