Usuthu who have been in good form recently received a shot in the arm this week when Spar delivered a R20-million cheque to the team that will certainly boost morale ahead of their game against Phunya Sele Sele.
Club PRO Philane Mabaso tells Kick Off that they intend to use tonight’s game to welcome their new sponsors.
“Obviously, with the new sponsorship and the incentives from Telkom, the boys are highly motivated to do well tonight. All our preparations for the game have been going well and all the players are available for selection with exception of Dumisani Ngwenya and Belux Bukasa Kasongo who are serving yellow card suspensions.
“We have been enjoying good form for the past three games and despite the absence our two key players, I am confident of a good performance against Celtic tonight,” Mabaso added.
With Ngwenya out, Mpho Maleka remains the main threat for the Free Staters who are still recovering from the defeat at the hands of Orlando Pirates in a League fixture at Ellis Park Stadium last week Friday.
Celtic’s head coach Khabo Zondo said in a post-match interview after their game against Bucs that Phunya Sele Sele did not look like a professional team on the day and that he would have strong words with the players ahead of their trip to Durban tonight.Club manager Khumbulani Konco adds that Tumelo Nhlapo and Cyrille Mubiala have been ruled of action for tonight’s game due to injury.
“Lebohang Mothibantwa is also out due to suspension. We viewed our loss against Orlando Pirates last week as wake up call and the boys have recovered from that loss and are ready to face AmaZulu tonight. We are taking along our supporters to Durban and I am sure this time we won’t disappoint them.”
Good news for Amasokolara is the return of striker Petros Mahlatsi who has recovered from injury.
Ntokozo Sikhakhane, Gary Goldstone and Kleinbooi Taaibos are also set to win places in the starting line up today.