Stellenbosch FC will have to make do without one of their key players when they take on Orlando Pirates on Friday evening.
This will be the first match for Stellies after they lifted the Carling Knockout Cup on the 16th of December in Durban. They beat TS Galaxy in the final on penalties to claim their first trophy in the top-flight.
They will be looking to stretch their unbeaten run to 11 games having gone for ten games without tasting defeat in all competitions. Steve Barker’s side also won all their previous three league games as they seek to stay at the top end of the table.
The Winelands side is fifth on the DStv Premiership standings having accumulated 23 points from 14 games.
On the other hand, the Buccaneers will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways after a frustrating 3-1 defeat at the hands of SuperSport United last week. Before the SuperSport defeat, Pirates had won five of their previous six games.
They sit fourth on the log with 25 points after 15 games.
STELLENBOSCH TO MISS FAWAAZ BASADIEN IN A MATCH AGAINST ORLANDO PIRATES
The Western Cape-based outfit will be without the services of their left-back Fawaaz Basadien who has been in hot form this season. The 27-year-old received marching orders in the Carling Knockout Cup final after he appeared to have insulted Lehlohonolo Mojela of TS Galaxy.
Basadien was part of the Bafana Bafana preliminary squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON], however, he didn’t make the cut in the final squad.
He has contributed immensely to Stellenbosch’s success this season, providing five assists in 17 matches he has played across all competitions. Meanwhile, Pirates have received a major boost with the return of Patrick Maswanganyi from suspension.
They have also welcomed back goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and forward Azola Matrose in training after nursing long-term injuries.
The match between the Sea Robbers and Stellies will take place at the Orlando Stadium at 8:00 pm.
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