Black Leopards are optimistic about registering their first win this season when they host Kruger United in their Motsepe Foundation Championship League match at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday.
Head coach Joel Masutha said the team would have only themselves to blame if they failed to beat Kruger. He appealed to fans to fill the stadium and promised a new-look Leopards side, with all players previously sidelined by the FIFA-imposed transfer ban now available for selection.
Masutha stressed that it was not too late for Black Leopards to challenge for the league title, despite having just two points from their first six matches. League leaders Milford FC have 15 points, while Leopards have one match in hand. A win against Kruger could move them from the bottom of the log to 12th place.
The return of Zimbabwean utility player Juan Adrian Mutudza, whose work permit has been approved, is expected to boost the team's attack. Chairman Tshifhiwa Thidiela said the 30-year-old dribbling specialist was eager to get on the pitch. Kruger will need to contain Leopards' goal threats, including Bethuel Muzeu, Thabana Mabena and Mwape Musonda.
Kruger United, currently sixth with nine points, are buoyed by a 3-0 win over Hungry Lions in their last match at the Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium in Upington two weeks ago. Meanwhile, Venda Football Club will face The Bees at the Kanyamazane Stadium outside Nelspruit.