Supersport ready for Pirates backlash

Supersport United will host Orlando Pirates on Saturday night at Mbombela Stadium in the semifinal of the Telkom Knockout in what promises to be a brutal encounter.

The Pretoria side know that the Buccaneers could the last big hurdle to the trophy since other big teams, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns have already been eliminated.

And if their last encounter is anything to go by, will list United favourites.

Earlier this month, Matsatsantsa humiliated the Soweto giants 6-1 in a rain-affected game at the same venue but Pirates recovered somewhat to record two consecutive wins.

Following the draw, United players had indicated they were ready for round two with Pirates.

Coach Staurt Baxter’s transitional play has seen a Supersport resurrection with Reneilwe Letsholonyane reborn. The midfield maestro put on two man of the match performances in the Pirates annihilation and the win against Sundowns.

.@SuperSportFC coach Stuart Baxter reveals the secret behind Reneilwe Letsholonyane's longevity. #KickOff https://t.co/H8wWHyJ92O

— Kick Off (@KickOffMagazine) November 9, 2016

The 32-year-old, known by many as “Yeye” will be instrumental if Supersport are to be victorious at the weekend.

The Matsatsantsa defence has been solid this season having only conceded five goals in 10 matches this season and the strike-force of Bradley Grobler and Jeremy Brokie has caused PSL defenders all sorts of problems of late.

And their form could not have been at a better time, going into the Christmas break.

Many coaches aiming for the title have stressed in the past that picking up the momentum before Christmas to put the team within touching distance of the pacesetters was crucial.

Should they beat Pirates, Matsatsantsa would do well to avoid complacency because potential contenders for the cup, Bidvest Wits have not fared poorly themselves having beaten Mameldoi Sundowns 3-0 to lift MTN final last month.

Wits meet Free State stars in the other semi on Saturday and surely United would prefer to meet the latter in the final instead of the league leaders.

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