BLACK Leopards boss David Thidiela is confident his charges will bounce back at the expense of Jomo Cosmos after their poor start to the National First Division season.
The teams will battle it out at Thohoyandou Stadium in Venda on Saturday (3pm).
Thidiela emphasised that his side’s 2-1 defeat to AmaZulu a forthnight ago wouldn’t affect their goal of gaining automatic promotion to the Absa Premiership.
Said Thidiela: “We are expecting a difficult game but we can overcome them. We have always had a good record against Cosmos in our backyard and with the support of our fans we can beat them. This game is the beginning of our journey to the PSL.”
Thidiela told SunSport that Lidoda Duvha coach Jairos Tapera knew the importance of finishing at the top of table.
Explained Thidiela: “We are ready to go back to the PSL but can’t do it without the support of our fans and commitment of our players. We want to achieve our target without being involved in the play-offs. The technical staff and players have been made aware of their mandate and this is not negotiable.”
The outspoken boss reckons they have assembled a strong squad capable of gaining promotion.
“I think we have a strong team who can make our fans proud. We are still waiting for work permits for Mwape Musonda, Ben Musaka and Mumini Abbubaker, and I have no doubt they will add more value in the team.”
Leopards will rely heavily on the scoring prowess of striker Roggert Nyundu, Irvin Mahangwahaya and Thembisani Nevhulamba. The Venda side will be without Phumlani Ntshangase due to injury.
- Tickets are on sale at Computicket at R20 for open stands and R30 for the grand stands for adults. Entry is free for kids under 16.
