Marumo Gallants plot Mamelodi Sundowns upset in survival fight

The clash at Loftus Versfeld will feature two sides with contrasting fortunes this season, as one fights to survive relegation while the other eyes the league championship for a ninth successive season. 

Mathiane, who was appointed to the role following the suspension of French coach Alexandre Lafitte, says they know exactly who they’re up against and need to tread carefully.

"The guys are well prepared, although we only had two short days to prepare the team, but we managed to do everything. Remember, we are playing against the champions so we have to be careful with everything they will bring to us.

"The boys are ready to play against Sundowns."

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Gallants sit just above the relegation zone only on goal difference and defeat against the champions could very well see them get sucked into that precarious 15^th position, especially if Orbit College win their game against Siwelele FC this weekend. Mathiane says they have a solid plan and are confident they can walk away with maximum points.

"We are well aware of the position we are in, so the most important thing is to get the three points in this game. Every chance we get, we have to convert and we have to defend with more numbers at the back so that Sundowns don't find those half spaces they want."

Sundowns themselves are under pressure to get all three points in their fierce title race with Orlando Pirates. The Buccaneers dropped points at the weekend after a 1-1 draw with Siwelele, which provides Downs with an opportunity to open a gap at the top. 

Mathiane says this means they will be coming hard at them to win the game, which could also work in their favour.

Marumo have been in the headlines for the wrong reasons recently, with coach Laffite’s suspension coming on top of a fight for their top flight status with Moroka Swallows. 

The 37-year-old says they’re professional enough to not let those off-field issues affect them, and are letting management deal with the matters.