SuperSport United Look to Bounce Back Against Marumo Gallants

SuperSport United will aim to return to winning form in the Betway Premiership as they host struggling Marumo Gallants at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Friday evening. The match, scheduled for 19:30, presents an opportunity for both sides to improve their standings in the league.

Current Form

SuperSport United head into this fixture after a frustrating run of results. Despite a morale-boosting 1-0 victory over Kaizer Chiefs, Gavin Hunt’s team has been unable to capitalize on that momentum, playing out consecutive goalless draws against Golden Arrows and Chippa United. United sit ninth on the league table with nine points from eight matches.

Their cause is further hindered by the suspension of defender Pogiso Sanoka, leaving Gavin Hunt with a defensive reshuffle to consider.

Meanwhile, Marumo Gallants, led by Dan Malesela, are battling to climb out of the relegation zone. Gallants recently ended a three-game losing streak with a narrow 1-0 win over AmaZulu but couldn’t sustain the form, drawing 1-1 with TS Galaxy and losing 1-0 to Stellenbosch. They are currently 15th on the table with just four points from six games.

Head-to-Head

SuperSport United enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture last season, collecting four points from the two matches. A 1-0 victory in the first round, courtesy of an Onismor Bhasera goal, was followed by a goalless draw in the reverse fixture.

Team Lineups

SuperSport United:

1. Mbanjwa; 2. Mobbie, 42. Baloyi, 13. Okon, 19. Rapoo; 15. Pule, 8. Ndlovu; 7. Grobler, 46. Magidigidi, 5. Mbangossoum; 25. Ayer
   Substitutes: Xulu, Lungu, Poggenpoel, Moralo, Baliti, Dzvukamanja, Morris, Mangezi

Marumo Gallants:

36. Arubi; 35. Sikhosana, 21. Mabotja, 29. Nthatheni, 26. Sithole; 22. Msendami, 11. Dhludhlu, 5. Manaka, 27. Shai; 10. Mphambaniso, 20. Khumalo
    Substitutes: Mlambo, Rikhotso, Chabatsane, Nange, Mhango, Mahlatsi, Wagaba

What to Watch

• SuperSport’s Defense: The absence of Pogiso Sanoka may test the depth and resilience of the home side’s backline.
• Gallants’ Attack: With Gallants desperate for points, their attacking trio of Mphambaniso, Shai, and Khumalo could pose a threat to SuperSport’s defense.
• Bradley Grobler Factor: SuperSport’s talisman, Bradley Grobler, remains key to their attacking play. His ability to convert chances could be decisive.

Match Outlook

SuperSport will look to exploit their home advantage and avoid dropping more points, especially against a team struggling at the bottom of the table. On the other hand, Marumo Gallants will view this as an opportunity to spring an upset and climb out of the relegation zone.

Will Gavin Hunt’s men reignite their campaign, or can Dan Malesela inspire Gallants to a much-needed win? All will be decided under the Friday night lights.