Mbombela’s fast rise mirrors that of Chippa

THERE’S still be a long way to go before the National First Division season comes to an end, but rookies Mbombela United are looking pretty good to repeat Chippa United’s feat of 2011-12.

Chippa won promotion in their first season in the First Division, making the giant leap from the third tier to topflight football within two seasons.

Mbombela look set to emulate the Eastern Cape-based club if their form in the second tier this season is anything to go by. Promoted at the end of last season from the ABC Motsepe League, Mbombela have shown no respect to their more fancied opponents this season.

They face Royal Eagles for the second time this season, eager to upset the big spenders who have slipped down to seventh spot in recent weeks. The match will be played at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday (3.30pm).

AmaZulu, meanwhile, visit Moroka Swallows at Dobsonville Stadium tomorrow (3.30pm). Usuthu coach Steve Barker says it would be foolish of them to underestimate the Dube Birds.

“They come from a big loss, but they can still be dangerous. We have to go in with the right attitude. It’s a must-win game,” he said. “Our season has been an inconsistent one... It’s been frustrating, but the second half of the season will be important. I believe there’s enough matches to make up ground.” FIXTURES (all 3.30pm) Tomorrow: Swallows v AmaZulu, Dobsonville; Spurs v Santos, Puma Stadium; FC Cape Town v Leopards, NNK Rugby Stadium; Thanda v Vasco, Umhlathuze; Baroka v Mthatha Bucks, Peter Mokaba Stadium Sunday: Warriors v Highlands Park, Charles Mopeli; Eagles v Mbombela, King Zwelithini