WeeklySA_AdminPLAY-OFFS: Swallows in life and death battle to remain in the elite league
By Masoja Cele
In form University of Pretoria FC will entertain the not so impressive Swallows FC in their second match of the promotion and relegation playoffs. The much awaited fixture will be played at Tuks Stadium on Saturday (15:00).
The Pretoria team proved in their opening game against Cape Town All Stars that they are seriously intending to play in the DStv Premiership next season. They trounced All Stars 3-1 away from home, proving once more that they are a team to watch in this mini playoffs tourney. AmaTuks relentlessly constricted Igugu lekapa with their lethal play.
There was a better cohesion between their defence and midfield. And that allowed their frontmen with better options in the final third of their attack. Tukkies showed unparalleled discipline and dedication against the Cape Town side. With Tuks displaying such vein of form, it’s anybody’s guess to think that Swallows will come out unscathed in this duel.
They boast quality playing personnel in Samuel Julies, Wonderboy Makhubu and Thabang Sibanyoni. The trio were in devastating form against Igugu lekapa. And they each registered their names on the score sheet against Stars. While Tuks defence manned by the resolute Lulama Maqoko and the tough tackling Keegan Allan protected their goalkeeper Thakasani Mbanjwa like a lion jealously guarding its cups.
Weekly SA Mirror spoke to AmaTuks tactician Tlisane Motaung who sounded confident about their clash against Swallows.
‘’ Our plan is to win our match with Swallows. Though it won’t be easy but my boys will push for a win. As the adage says, don’t fix it if it’s not broken. I won’t tamper with the team except for Singnkhi Mpedi who is suspended for this clash’’ noted Motaung.
DStv Premieship relegated side Swallows FC notched a tough 2-1 win in their first promotion playoffs against Cape Town All Stars at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium. The Dube Birds were not so impressive against All Stars. In the first 45 minutes they looked disarray and had no system in place. Their defence looked so disjointed chasing the shadows of the opposition in every attack they created. However, it was in the second stanza that Swallows upped the tempo of their game.
This happened after Amaswayiswayi mentor Dylan Kerr had introduced Ruzaigh Gamildien, Joseph Mhlongo and Sphesihle Mbhele after the break to improve his lukewarm assault.
The Birds started high pressing game that frustrated the visitors. Swallows most notable players in the second half were Dillon Solomons whose attacks on the right channel frustrated the Stars defence.
While the lighting fast Kamohelo Mahlatsi did likewise on the left channel. Swallows defence of Wandisile Letlabika, Yagan Sasman and Junaid Sait need to be compact in their defending if they hope to upset Tuks speedy strike force. The University team and The Birds have all three points but Tukkies lead the standings because of a better goal difference.
In a second round fixture, on Wednesday June 8 University of Pretoria welcome Cape Town All Stars at Tuks Stadium in a 15h00 kick-off.
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