Black Aces ready to change the tide

The home team has already made their intentions to permanently relocate to Mbombela official, and this could only mean more game time. Both Aces and Platinum Stars are coming from a bad weekend and will look to change the tide.

“Platinum Stars are a very hard nut to crack and it will take hard work and dedication from our players to overcome them,” said Aces’ PRO, Gordon Masondo. This game kicks off at 19:30.

After this clash Aces have yet another tough date against the stubborn Pretoria-based side, Tuks FC, on August 30 at Mbombela Stadium.

“It’s true that we need to develop that winning mentality whenever we have home advantage, and at least fight for a draw when playing away. And we need to do this now, at the early stages of the season where most teams are still finding their footing. The coach has spoken with the players and they know they need to deliver,” added Masondo.

“It’s really saddening to see our people supporting teams outside of the province when we are here. We are not saying people should leave their favourite teams for us, but they must come and support us whenever we play against other teams. Just look at how soccer supporters from Bloemfontein support the Celtics whenever the team plays against others. I wish our people could take charge of the team and own it,” Masondo continued.

Aces’ coach, Clive Barker has made his intentions clear for this season and has already given his troops their orders.

“We want to finish the season within the top four teams in the PSL and do well in cup games.

“I am confident that we have what it takes to challenge for top honours and turn this team into a powerhouse that would be loved by all the people of the province,” said Barker, who added that he wasn’t worried about their recent defeat against Chiefs.

“That was a test and I would like to believe we aced it, we showed Chiefs what we are made of,” he added.