AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane says Usuthu need to capitalize on their opponents’ weaknesses in the much-anticipated derby encounter against Lamontville Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership today (3.30pm kick-off).
Usuthu has had a stop-start season that has seen them put up good performances, but they have also failed to back them up consistently enough to string up a winning run that could see them occupy a position in the top half of the table.
Co-coaches Zwane and Vusumuzi Vilakazi have been active in the market in an attempt to bolster their side. The acquisition of former Mamelodi Sundowns and Glasgow Rangers midfielder Bongani Zungu could be a step in the right direction and a solution to some of their shortfalls.
The 32-year-old could be in line to make his debut today, and his experience and quality could be crucial for the remainder of the season.
Amazulu were on the receiving end of a harsh late 1-0 loss against Sundowns in the dying minutes of their Betway Premiership clash almost two weeks ago. They were wasteful in front of goal with the few chances they got, and the fact that they have conceded more goals than they have scored so far this season could be a cry for them to bolster their striking department.
Their immediate challenge, though, will be to overcome a Lamontville Golden Arrows side that has been a thorn in their side for the past few league games.
A solo Hendrick Ekstein goal handed Usuthu their fourth win of the season the last time out against troubled Cape Town City, who would later part ways with coach Eric Tinkler.
The former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder has been a bright spark for Usuthu in front of goal, and he has already bagged four league goals this season.
The win propelled the KZN side to eleventh on the table with ten matches played, but the concern for the two coaches heading into the derby will be the lack of common ground in their performances, as when they play well enough, they secure victories, but none of their bad days have been draws but rather losses, which have halted their progress.
Abafana Bes’thende walked away with a 3-1 win the last time the two sides met in the league, and coach Zwane, faced with the opportunity of facing their crosstown rivals for the first time since joining the club, has asked his side to take advantage of their home fixture.
“The last game against Polokwane City, they (Golden Arrows) drew 0-0, and as we look at them, they obviously have strengths and weaknesses, and we will want to nullify those strengths and also to capitalize on their weaknesses,” Zwane said.
The former Chiefs coach added that his side needs to be on the mark heading into the fixture as they need to ensure they collect all the points on offer.
“I just hope our preparations are spot on going into that game, and I can only hope for the best as we don’t have any choice but to go for maximum points, especially because we are playing at home.”