Thapelo Morena admits difficulty of Mamelodi Sundowns' hectic schedule

Thapelo Morena admits difficulty of Mamelodi Sundowns' hectic schedule

Mamelodi Sundowns utility player Thapelo Morena has acknowledged the struggles of having to squeeze in fixtures during the festive season on the back of an already busy first half of the season.

Sundowns, haunted by the high standards they've set for themselves in the past, are being tested this month as they gear up for their seventh match in what has been a jam-packed four weeks already this month.

Just three days after their 0-0 draw away to Cape Town City, a test against former senior coach Steve Komphela's Moroka Swallows awaits at Loftus Stadium on Wednesday, and Morena admits to feeling the fatigue.

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"It's a bit of a difficult one, but as professionals we know how it is. It's the second day after the game [against Cape Town City], from Christmas mode and being tired from travelling and playing games," said Morena.

"So, preparations are going well, and we just have to focus on the next game against Swallows and make sure that we deliver."

The Brazilians have travelled the length and breadth, not only of the country but also the continent – competing in the DStv Premiership, domestic cups, CAF Champions League and the African Football League already this season.

Coming up against The Dube Birds, the 30-year-old says they have done their homework over the last 48 hours to ensure they are fully prepared for the battle that lies ahead.

"It's going to be a very interesting one, and a very difficult one knowing that there's certain elements they're using – I think the most important thing will be the energy and aggression," he added.

"Even for them, it's the second day from their game [against Royal AM], if I'm not mistaken, and tomorrow it's the game.

"So, I think we might have a bit of a difficult one in terms of energy, but we're definitely sure that we're going to give our best.

"All in all, we want to win and we've done our work on Swallows, and we know where we can punish them and where their strengths are as well."

Downs finally close out the year on Saturday when they host Polokwane City at their home ground in Tshwane.