Mabunda’s warning
DOWNS STAR: ‘THERE ARE NO EASY GAMES AS WE ARE PLAYING CATCH-UP’
His superb form has earned him a second call-up for Bafana.
Tiyani Mabunda says Mamelodi Sundowns need to get back to winning ways in order for them to reclaim what he calls their “rightful position” at the top of the Absa Premiership.
Sundowns host Polokwane City tonight at Loftus Versfeld, having dropped five points in their last two games – they are currently in fifth place, five points behind leaders Bidvest Wits, though they have three games in hand on the Clever Boys and even more in hand on the other sides above them in the table.
“Every game from now on will be a big game. Everybody will want to beat us. There are no easy games for us at the moment because we are playing catchup. The technical team and the coaches have to manage how we go through these games and make sure we continue to do well because we have a lot of outstanding games,” Mabunda told Phakaaathi yesterday.
“I believe today’s game is going to put us up there where we belong, because we have dropped a couple of points in the last few games. I think it is time that we take our rightful position at the top,” he added.
Mabunda took a knock to his shoulder during Sundowns’ 2-1 win over Kampala Capital City Authority in the Caf Champions League on Friday evening, but he is hopeful of making the squad tonight.
“Just like last time, I have to go for a late examination to see whether I will be able to play. The doctor gave me the go-ahead to train.”
The 28-year-old has been rewarded for his stellar performances with his second Bafana Bafana call-up. His first was back in November last year when he was brought in as a replacement for Dean Furman who had suffered an injury. This time his name was on the original 25man list announced by caretaker coach Owen da Gama.
“To be called up is always great for me, regardless of whether I am called up during the announcement or called up later. I will always be grateful to once again represent the country. For me, all I have to do is continue to showcase the talent that God has given me the best way I can. I am always ready to play whenever I am called upon,” added Mabunda.