Melinda Kgadiete will be aiming to extend her excellent scoring record in the Hollywoodbets Super League as Sundowns Ladies square off against First Touch Academy in the latest round of the Hollywoodbets Super League on Wednesday.
The forward has scored seven times in the last eight games since the beginning of April, showcasing a remarkable run of form as South Africa gears up for next month’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Kgadiete, who has impressively scored nine goals in the league this season, has rightfully earned herself a call-up to the preliminary 36-member Banyana Banyana squad. Alongside her, six other Brazilians have also been included – Andile Dlamini, Karabo Dhlamini, Lebohang Ramalepe, Tiisetso Makhubela, Bambanani Mbane and Lelona Daweti.
Ahead of Wednesday’s clash, Melinda, who scored a goal against First Touch last season, eagerly anticipates the opportunity to extend her impressive scoring streak.
“As a striker, my goal is to score in every game, regardless of the opponent we are facing. It is my utmost desire to contribute to the team’s success and help secure victory through goals. Whether we are playing against strong rivals or less challenging teams, my determination to make a difference remains solid. I believe that by consistently finding the back of the net, I can contribute significantly to the overall success of the team,” said Melinda.
Despite First Touch currently being ranked 12th on the log, Kgadiete is not expecting an easy fixture, “The teams that find themselves at the lower end of the standings pose an even greater threat because they are fighting tooth and nail to avoid relegation. In this highly competitive league, there are no games that can be considered easy.”
Veteran striker Andisiwe Mgcoyi, who is also set to feature against the Limpopo-based side, has praised the team’s preparations ahead of the clash.
“As always, we are working hard in training and eagerly anticipating an exciting encounter. Our objective is to rectify any mistakes made in previous matches and further strengthen our team’s capabilities. This season, there are no easy games, as any team in the league has the potential to secure three points against any other team. Therefore, we approach each match with utmost respect for our opponents and acknowledge the value they bring. We have witnessed in previous matches that when teams face us, they are determined to secure at least a point, if not all three points,” Andisiwe stated.
Having scored against First Touch in the previous season, Mgcoyi is well acquainted with finding the back of the net in this particular fixture, “As a striker, I am constantly seeking opportunities to add to my goal tally, and if the chance arises to score, I will certainly seize it. This clash holds a special place for me, and I genuinely enjoy playing in it. I am eagerly looking forward to the game and hoping for a successful performance both individually and as a team.”
Sundowns Ladies have bossed this fixture in recent times. Last season, the Brazilians beat their opponents 8-0 on home soil and registered a 4-0 victory in the reverse meeting. Banyana Ba Style also registered a 2-1 away win earlier this season.
The clash between Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies and First Touch Academy is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 7th, at the Wits University Stadium. The match will kick off at 15:00.
