Rulani has done all his homework on Baroka

If there is anything that scares the Mamelodi Sundowns coaches about their next opponents, Baroka FC, is how potent they can be when it comes to set-pieces.

This is a concern for Rulani Mokwena (below) and company bearing in mind that Masandawana have not been the best at defending set-plays of late.

“We have gone extensively into Baroka’s style of play. Their last game on Tuesday against TS Galaxy saw eight changes, compared to the line-ups that they fielded in the last couple of matches ( before that). We looked back into their last three games against Galaxy, Chippa United and Orlando Pirates,” said Downs cohead coach Mokwena.

“They are a clear threat on set-pieces and it is one that we are aware of and have to be careful and ready for. They are a good team with a clear identity and personality.

“They keep to their attacking pattern, create good opportunities to develop play and they have got the speed of Tshediso Patjie and Thamsanqa Masiya, who are good at getting behind defenders. (Evidence) Makgopa is good in terms of giving the team a focal point. It is a strong team that also defends well,” Mokwena added.

Bakgaga have not been doing particularly well in their own backyard, but Mokwena is wary of the sudden motivation Baroka can get when playing big teams like the defending champions.

“It is going to be a difficult one, they are never an easy side to play against and particularly when they are at home. They have got a very experienced ( goalkeeper) Elvis Chipezeze, who has good vision and a reputation for building from the back. They have Vusi Sibiya and Phelelani Shozi at the back and Denwin Farmer as an option, with very direct and aggressive full-backs, Ananias Gebhardt and Cheslyn Jampies.“They are also strong in the midfield but we will see what they put out and have prepared well. We have had a couple of training sessions to prepare and hopefully we come up with a good result.”