Aces set their sights on home victory

Mpumalanga Black Aces will take on Free State Stars at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday December 13. The team will aim to improve their home form. Aces have only collected two wins and a draw this season at home, giving them a relatively small total of seven points. Their away form has been in top shape with the team gaining 13 points in the oppositions’ territory. This included wins against Moroka Swallows and Amazulu.

The team is currently on a winning streak after crushing Amazulu 3-1 at Princess Magogo Stadium last Saturday. Goals from Eddie Ngalo, S’boniso Gumede and Tendai Ndoro paved the way for a much-needed victory.

Free State Stars have also been experiencing up and downs. They lost their previous Absa Premiership match against Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 and are currently languishing in 15th position.

One of coach Clive Barker’s main concerns will be the list of injuries he currently has to handle. Dennis Masina is currently out for the rest of the year after sustaining an ankle ligament injury. Lehlohonolo Nonyane has a hamstring strain but is expected to be back for Aces’ match against Bloemfontein Celtic next Wednesday. Valery Nahayo and Mabhuti Khenyeza are also doubtful for Saturday’s clash against Free State Stars.

To add to Barker’s problems, top goalkeeper, Jackson Mabokgwane has also been suspended after receiving two yellow cards for wasting time in the previous match against Amazulu.

A positive point will be the return of defender Edwin Gyimah after he missed the Amazulu game due to a suspension. Captain, Abia Nale has also returned to train and should be ready for this week’s clash.

Stars’ key players will be Tiyani Mabunda and Moeketsi Sekola who will aim to do their utmost to breach Aces defence, which has been shaky.

Aces’ Collins Mbesuma and Ndoro will look to administer the same fate to their opposition from the Free State tomorrow.

Catch all the action live at 15:30.