SuperSport expect tough Aces battle
Absa Premiership early pace setters, SuperSport United will go into the game against newly-promoted side Mpumalanga Black Aces high on confidence. The two-week International break has not dampened Matsatsantsa a Pitori's spirits.
Absa Premiership early pace setters, SuperSport United will go into the game against newly-promoted side Mpumalanga Black Aces high on confidence. The two-week International break has not dampened Matsatsantsa a Pitori's spirits.
The former three-time PSL champions are on top of the log with three wins in as many matches with their latest casualties being defending champions Kaizer Chiefs. They will be away to Amazayoni on Sunday at the Mbombela Satdium.
The Tshwane-based side opened their season with a rampant 4-1 win over Blomfontein Celtics and then followed it up with 1-0 win over Tshwane rivals University of Pretoria. Their biggest win was without a doubt the 3-1 comprehensive victory against Chiefs.
United coach Cavin Johnson is expecting a tough challenge against an Aces side that was edged out 3-2 by Moroka Swallows in their last league match.
"I expect a tough game from them. They have assembled a good team and they were unlucky to lose in their previous match against Swallows. I look forward to facing Clive Barker as well because he's a good coach with excellent qualities," Johnson said.
Johnson guided Platinunm Stars to a fairy tale second-placed finish last season and it was no surprise whe he was named new SuperSport coach but he believes the support of his technical stuff is the secret behind the bright start to the season.
SuperSport's blistering start sees them being early title favourites. Under Johnson, United have been playing free-flowing football in contrast to the direct approach from his predecessor Gavin Hunt. Johnson heaped praise on his backroom staff and the players since taking over the hot seat.
He said: "It was my dream when I joined the team to get the players to gel as quickly as possible.
"Credit must go to my technical team in goalkeeper Alex Heredia and assistant coach Kwanele Kopo. They bought into my philosophy and how I want the team to play."
The recent Fifa World Cup Qualifying matches meant United were without any competitive action for two weeks. The former Platinum Stars coach believes the constant breaks are something the league needs to look into.
"When it's a Fifa calendar then there's nothing we can do but when it's cup competitions, I think the PSL can improve on that and let league matches take place.
"We have played a couple of friendly games during the break and I think the players will be in good physical condition. Apart from Sibusiso Zuma, I have everyone available for selection" Johnson concluded.
- Jacasport