Matchday 2 - preview
Thanda Royal Zulu - Bloemfontein Celtic
DURBAN, September 13 (Absa Premier League) – Thanda Royal Zulu coach Roger Palmgren has urged his players to build on the victory gained against Kaizer Chiefs in their opening game of the Absa Premier League by overcoming Bloemfontein Celtic in Hammersdale on Sunday.
The Amabhubesi shocked many with their 2-1 victory over the Soweto giants on matchday one and Palmgren is looking for a repeat performance in their first home game of the season.
However, the Swede knows it will not be easy against a Celtic team looking to bounce back from losing 1-0 to Mamelodi Sundowns two weeks ago.
“We’ll be looking to build on our opening win against Chiefs,” said Palmgren. “Everything has gone well this week, except for a few injuries, but we’ll be ready.
“We can say they lost their opening game and we won our first one. But this is not that relevant. Players have to open up and I’m sure if my players stick to the basics we go out and get the win.”
The Mpumalanga Stadium, venue for Sunday’s encounter, is now also the official home ground of Thanda and Palmgren is not too concerned with the new surroundings.
He added: “I don’t think playing there will impact negatively. We’ve already played there a few times so I feel there are definitely more positives than negatives to look forward to.”
Striker Norman Smith (ankle) and midfielder Bongani Mbhele (foot) are the only two injury concerns for the hosts, meaning there could be a debut in attack for Nkosinathi Nhleko.
On the other hand, Celtic coach Mich D’Avray has a full squad at his disposal.
He said: “Obviously the international break didn’t help any team I don’t think. But, we are definitely looking to bounce back from that opening loss and go home with some points.
“There are no injuries to report, so there is almost a clean bill of health.”
D’Avray, who only took charge of Phunya Sele Sele this season, admits he is not losing too much of sleep over their opening day defeat.
“Sundowns in the opening game was a pretty tough one,” he continued. “But there were plenty of positives to come out from the performance and we’re looking to build on that.
“Obviously we are looking for points because I think it’s going to be a very competitive league this season from what I’ve seen so far.
“But we are very tough and competitive and hopefully we’ll be able to challenge,” he added.