Birds, Dikwena set for epic battle

Moroka Swallows are on the road to fellow strugglers Platinum Stars as they search for their first three points in 2015 at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Kick-off is at 3:30pm.

The Dube Birds haven’t started the second round well following their three losses in the league to Mamelodi Sundowns, Polokwane City and Bidvest Wits.

Fani Madida’s men are placed at position 14 on the log standings with 19 points from 20 matches.

However, Allan Freese’s side is also struggling having lost two of their last league games to Orlando Pirates and Bloemfontein Celtic, while drawing one against Clive Barker’s Mpumalanga Black Aces.

They’re sitting at position 15 with 18 points from 19 matches and a loss could increase their chances of facing the relegation battle.

Speaking ahead of their match against Dikwena, the Dube Birds midfielder, Sandile Sibande said going to Rustenburg means they need to claim the three points.

“Yes I see a tough match because they’re playing at home. They beat us at home so this is our chance to go there and claim the three points,” said Sibande.

“We’re one point above them and this will be a tough match indeed but we also want to move away from that position.

“We’ll have to focus on our qualities hoping that things will get better. We’ve got good players with experience to rescue the team out of this predicament.

“We’re going to Rustenburg for nothing other than the three points.”

However, to the Dikwena striker Rhulani Manzini, they’re ready for Madida’s men and their mission is to retain the three points at home.

“We aim to definitely to keep the points and move up the log standings as we are playing at home,” said Manzini.

“We’re calling to our supporters to rally behind us and show their support.

“We’re fortunate to have everyone available for selection as all the guys who were injured are back now and no suspensions.

“The mission is to win at all costs and we cannot afford to let this opportunity slip away from us.”