Tough battle for Absa Premiership promotion

Johannesburg - The battle for Absa Premiership promotion continues in the National First Division (NFD).

Although it is still too early to say who will be promoted automatically to the Absa Premiership next season, there is no doubt that Stellenbosch FC will want to ensure they are among the top three sides who will contest for the playoffs for promotion at the end of the season.

The Cape side on Sunday travels to KwaZulu-Natal for a clash against Uthongathi FC at the Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu. Kick-off is at 15:30.

After drawing their games last weekend, the two teams are looking to bounce back. Stellenbosch played to a goalless draw against Super Eagles, and Uthongathi played to 1-all result away to Real Kings.

With the difference at the top a mere five points, the Western Cape side will be keen to keep the pressure on the teams above them.

A win for Stellenbosch will improve their hopes of challenging for Absa Premiership playoffs, if not for title challenge.

Coach Steve Barker said they expected tough games going to the finish line.

“We don’t take anything away from Uthongathi, they are a very good football club with a great coach (Ronnie Gabriel) and have not played badly in previous matches, but we have to play our different style of football and take it one game at a time,” he said.

Barker said they should not be ruled out of title contention.

“NFD is a very difficult league; anything is possible.”

On the flip side, 10th-placed Mbombela United welcome Super Eagles at Kabokweni Stadium, northeast of Nelspruit in Mpumalanga, on Sunday afternoon, also at 15:30.

A win for United will increase their hopes of finishing in the top four.