Marumo Gallants to keep attacking approach against Mamelodi Sundowns

Marumo Gallants will not abandon their footballing philosophy when they face Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership this evening, head coach Phuti Mohafe says.

The fixture has been rearranged after the original meeting was postponed three weeks ago following the sad passing of Jayden Adams. The two sides will now meet with Gallants still searching for their first maximum points of the season.

Gallants began their campaign with a goalless draw against Kruger United before suffering a 3-1 defeat by Stellenbosch FC. Those results mean Mohafe’s side have taken only one point from their opening two matches, but the coach insists the setbacks will not lead to a change in identity against the African Champions.

Mohafe says Bahlabane Ba Ntwa will continue to play with the ball and attempt to impose their usual style, despite the quality and status of their opponents.

“The team Marumo Gallants, with my exception, they’ve been doing so great against Mamelodi Sundowns,” Mohafe told the media.

“And I think, with my knowledge of the game, I think we will work hand in glove in terms of that, and the approach should not be the one where we are saying we are going to sit back, but we have to play our normal game.

“Marumo Gallants is a ball-playing team, so we have to pass the ball. We have to rotate the ball.”

The coach’s comments underline his intention to remain positive rather than instruct Gallants to defend deep for long periods. He believes the team’s established approach should be maintained, even though Sundowns represent one of the toughest challenges in the division.

Gallants’ immediate task is to turn their possession-based style into a first league victory. Their opening draw against Kruger United was followed by the loss to Stellenbosch FC, leaving them without a win before the rescheduled contest.

Sundowns’ meeting with Gallants had initially been due to take place three weeks earlier, but the match was postponed because of Adams’ death. The rearranged game gives both clubs the opportunity to complete the fixture while Gallants seek a stronger result after their uneven start.

Mohafe also referred to Gallants’ previous performances against Sundowns, suggesting the club has produced encouraging displays in this fixture. His focus is now on ensuring that the players maintain that approach and show confidence in possession when the match gets under way this evening.

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