The Reds have recently hit a slump in form with just two wins from their last five games. The dip is the worst since their last season’s championship triumph. This has allowed challengers to catch up as Jwaneng Galaxy ascended to the top of the standings last weekend.
From being the pacesetter, GU is now the chaser as they trail Galaxy by two points. But they still enjoy a three-point buffer over their weekend's opponents. However, a win for the Ostriches will see them draw level with GU on points.
These factors are to instigate an all-attack mentality from the Reds. The team should not struggle upfront as they scored 13 goals in the last five games. The team has conceded more goals in the last five-game run with four as compared to two conceded in the opening 11 games. There has been squad rotation by the Reds’ technical bench with youngster Gape Thibedi’s performances being the highlight.
However, the team’s cohort of strikers including Onkabetse Makgantai, John Mark Makwata and Sizwe Twala have struggled up front. GU’s former defender, Thato Kebue will be relishing a show against his former teammates.
The visiting side has conceded just four times in the last five outings. Their defensive record has helped them to three wins during that period. However, they are at par with GU as they failed to win in the last two games.
The Ostriches have, however, been in a good mood in front of the goals scoring 11 in their last five games. Leading top goal-scorer, Omaatla Kebatho, will approach the tie with vigour as he is on course to take home the green boot award. For the first time in a league game this season, Kebatho failed to score in the previous round of matches. Meanwhile, four teams take a breather from the league action this weekend, as they engage in the Orange FA Cup ties. Tomorrow, Philemon Makwengwe will look to continue his positive start at Holy Ghost against his former side, Extension Gunners at the Lobatse Sports Complex. Galaxy is home to Security Systems at the Galaxy Stadium.
On Sunday afternoon, Rahman Gumbo faces his former side, Sua Flamingoes as Morupule Wanderers eye a return to winning ways at the Serowe Sports Complex. Police XI and Mogoditshane Fighters battle for three points at the Molepolole Sports Complex. Township Rollers are at the National Stadium for a tie against BDF XI. The games kick off at 4pm.
