Matchday 4 - preview
Thanda Royal Zulu FC - Supersport United
DURBAN, October 4 (Absa Premier League) – Thanda Royal Zulu coach Roger Palmgren has called for more of his players to stand up and be counted ahead of their Absa Premier League clash against Supersport United on Sunday.
The Swede watched the team lose for the first time this season against Amazulu last weekend and he is keen to get back on the winning trail that saw them claim back-to-back wins to start off the new campaign.
However, it will be a big test for the Amabhubesi, who have never beaten the defending champions in four previous meetings.
The task in Hammersdale will be made even more difficult considering our long injury list, but Palmgren is confident we have enough strength in depth to see off United.
“Training has gone well this week,” he said. “Unfortunately we have a lot of injuries, but on the other hand there are lots of other players in the squad that have shown themselves that they have a good use amongst the starting XI.
“Off course they (Supersport) are a strong team, they have a very good coach and we have full respect for them.
“But we won’t change our way of playing based on whoever we’re playing against. We will play our own game and we hope at the end of the day that’s going to be enough.”
Even though captain Bernard Parker is in the form of his life, scoring all four of our goals this season as well as netting twice for South Africa earlier this week, the coach is hoping that others also start contributing.
“I’m hoping he continues his form, but I’m also hoping the other players start coming up, because we can’t rely on one player for the whole season.”
Peter Ndlovu (knee), Norman Smith (ankle) and Bongani Mbele (muscle) are all ruled out for Thanda, while Katlego Loke (thigh) is doubtful.
Supersport meanwhile are yet to taste defeat this season and their coach Gavin Hunt knows he has a tough game on his hands against an ever-improving Thanda.
“It’s going to be tough coming down there,” he said. “They have a much better side this year, which is looking much more organised.
“They’ve made a good start to the season. They’ve gotten themselves six out of nine points and they look good.”
Goalkeeper Denis Onyango faces a late fitness test, while defenders Davis Nkausu (suspension) and Tsietsi Mahoa (knee) are definitely out.