Amazulu aim to harness KwaMashu roar against unbeaten Gallants

AmaZulu head coach Arthur Zwane has warned that his side must prepare for one of their toughest examinations yet when they host high-flying Marumo Gallants on Wednesday evening (7.30pm kick-off).

Usuthu are coming off a mixed start to their Betway Premiership campaign, opening with a victory before falling short away to reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Now back on home soil, Zwane knows the challenge posed by Gallants will demand absolute focus and intensity.

“We’re coming up against a side that’s very confident because they haven’t lost a game this season and they are coming to Durban knowing they collect maximum points the last time they were here (against Richards Bay),” said Zwane.

“They are carrying a lot of belief in their team at the moment so it will be up to us to be ready for them and dig deeper than ever.”

Gallants have enjoyed a blistering start under new coach Alexander Lafitte. The Limpopo outfit has won both their opening fixtures, including an eye-catching home victory against Orlando Pirates.

 That form has quickly established them as one of the early pace-setters in the league, and their tactical organisation coupled with sharp counter-attacking play will make them a dangerous opponent.

For AmaZulu, consistency remains the key theme. Zwane has emphasised the importance of his side showing greater mental resilience and composure in crucial phases of play. 

Against Gallants, they will need to marry their attacking instincts with defensive concentration if they are to put a halt to their visitors’ winning run.

The setting for this clash once again adds to the narrative. AmaZulu’s decision to relocate their home matches to Princess Magogo Stadium this season was designed to bring them closer to their loyal KwaMashu fan base. 

The move has already paid dividends, with supporters filling the stands in full voice during their opening home fixture. 

Zwane will hope that same energy from the stands translates into an edge on the pitch against an in-form Gallants side.

With momentum on Gallants’ side and home pride on the line for Usuthu, Wednesday night promises to be a fierce battle in KwaMashu — one that could set the tone for both teams’ early-season ambitions.