All eyes will be on this weekend’s fixture when Mamelodi Sundowns’ Diski Team hosts the Orlando Pirates Reserves in the top-of-the-log clash on Saturday morning at Tuks Stadium.
Masandawana came from behind to secure a crucial win over TS Galaxy, garnering three points. This result was crucial for Downs in keeping them in the race for the Reserve League title. The young Buccaneers, however, dropped points, which led to Downs soaring to the top of the tally. Speaking to coach Tiro van Rooyen, he reflected on last weekend’s result, stating the victory was important for his charges.
“It’s very good to be in the winning moment, so you may take the confidence into the next game. It’s very important for the players to also win for the Club due to the high demands. We just wanted to have a good result heading to this game to take the pressure off ourselves.”
Up next on their programme is the mammoth fixture at home as both sides will gun for the first place on the log. With the Pirates losing their previous fixture and their coach eager for his side to bounce back, coach Tiro said the meeting will be a tough one.
“The situation with Pirates can serve as a double-edged sword. They could really try to bite back or overdo it and this is why we will need to have control of the game and be more present by performing well,” he said.
“Compared to Pirates, we have more players who have been with the Club for over four years. So, they understand the philosophy of the Club, and I’d like to believe having played together for a while in the academy, there should be fluidity on our side. It is going to be a physically demanding fixture, but we are looking forward to this fixture,” he continued.
The Diski coach also admitted to having struggled with preparation for this encounter, with many players focusing on matric duties. He, however, countered by stating that his side is willing to give a maximum performance and will look to walk away with all points on offer.
“The most important thing is that we want to develop holistic players. So, the schooling, at this moment, takes precedent. The important thing for us is to help these players get over their matric and we need to support them. Preparing for this game hasn’t been easy with the matric exams ongoing, but we have prepared to the best of our ability, and we will put our best foot forward on Saturday. We have got the talent and the quality on the park, we will just lack a bit of rhythm.”
Mamelodi Sundowns’ Diski Team will clash against the Orlando Pirates Reserves on Saturday morning at Tuks Stadium. Kick-off has been scheduled for 10H00.
