By Michael Madyira
Following a seven-week break to accommodate the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) tournament, Premier Soccer League action resumes this weekend.
A full-fixture complement is on the cards starting with SuperSport United, who are third on the table, hosting fourth-placed Stellenbosch on Friday.
But Saturday’s meeting between log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versfeld is the pick of the weekend.
Masandawana, who are nine points clear at the summit with two games in hand, face Pirates who are fifth in the standings with 13 points less.
Eleven Sundowns players who were at Afcon are back and it remains to be seen if they will be rested or thrown into the thick of things by coach Rhulani Mokwena.
Mokwena could unleash January signing Thembinkosi Lorch to face his former paymasters in what could be an emotional game for the attacking midfielder.
“The team welcomed me well,” Lorch told the media on Thursday.
“The spirit in the team is very good. Everyone wants to play over the weekend because we are playing Pirates who are a big team, it’s a big game.
“So yes, the coach will decide who plays — it’s up to the coach.
“It is difficult to play my first game, especially against my former team.
“But in life, we have to move on. I’m hoping that I will start over the weekend and do my best for the team.”
Pirates also welcomed back six players who were with Bafana Bafana at Afcon, including Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thabang Monare, Zakhele Lepasa and Evidence Makgopa.
Also on Saturday, second-placed Cape Town City travel to Gqeberha for a date with Chippa United while basement side Cape Town Spurs continue their battle against relegation by hosting AmaZulu.
Moroka Swallows, who fired over 20 players, meet Polokwane City in Soweto and Sekhukhune United cross swords with Richards Bay as both sides try to avoid demotion.
Before the Afcon break, Kaizer Chiefs enjoyed a mini-revival and would want to continue on that path in Sunday’s trip to Royal AM.
On the same day, TS Galaxy welcome Golden Arrows at Mbombela Stadium.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams collects the ball in front of Orlando Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki
Image source: Orlando Pirates
