Surprise Moriri (Gallo)

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Johannesburg - Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Surprise Moriri expects Free State Stars to come out swinging when the clubs collide in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals on Saturday.

"We are taking this game very seriously because we are aware that we have to get to the final, as we really need this cup," Moriri told Downs' website.

"It's not going to be an easy game, since we know that Free State Stars will come to us very motivated and the fact that they really want to lift this cup as well.

"Their road to the semi-finals has not been easy either because they have beaten big sides such as Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

"The other interesting factor to consider is that we will be playing them twice within a short space of time, as we will be playing them again in the league and that makes this match a very tough game for both teams."

The ex-Bafana Bafana star expects an open contest in Tshwane, and called on the Chloorkop faithful to make their presence felt.

"Free State Stars are not just getting the results but they are also playing some good football and that makes for an interesting and exciting match for the spectators," he said.

"I also would like say to our supporters that we understand they are very disappointed about the results from the past game and we are also very disappointed.

"They must keep coming to the stadium and support us because this is where we need them the most.

"The supporters should also know that we want do well as much as they want it and we go to this match with good intentions," concluded the 32-year-old.

The Brazilians enter proceedings on the back of a 2-0 PSL loss to Chiefs, while Ea Lla Koto edged Santos 1-0 in their previous test.

Both teams are chasing league honours as well, with Downs two points behind leaders Pirates, and Stars four points off the pace with two games left.