Just two seasons ago, Bloemfontein had no PSL team. Now, on Sunday, a historic clash will take place at the so-called “Slaughterhouse” – a venue both teams use as their home ground. Three points will be crucial for both sides. 

Marumo currently sit 10th on the log with 10 points, while their city neighbours, Siwelele, are struggling at the bottom in 16th with just four points from eight matches. Their points come from an opening-round win against Golden Arrows and a 0-0 draw with Richards Bay.

Mpho Chabatsane of Marumo Gallants. Photo: Morgan Piek

By contrast, Marumo have registered just two wins so far: a 2-1 victory over Richards Bay in Durban and a 2-1 home win against Orlando Pirates. They also held defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw at home, and Kaizer Chiefs to a 1-1 draw at Soccer City earlier this week.

Following the stalemate against the mighty Amakhosi on Wednesday in Soweto, Lafitte, who is the youngest coach in PSL history, said this is a very important game for his team, and they will build on the positives from their earlier results against the so-called “big three.”

“Yes, it’s a very important match – for the club, the city, and the team,” said Lafitte.

“I also think it’s important to look back at our good performances earlier in the season to prepare for Sunday. We need to recover properly and make sure our preparations are spot on, because the match is very important for the fans as well.

“I believe my team can win the derby.”

Earlier this week, following a 1-0 defeat to Orlando Pirates – a tough loss for Siwelele at home – coach Lehlohonolo Seema said he believes his team is moving in the right direction, and that the Bloemfontein derby is the perfect chance to turn things around.

“I can honestly say I see this team heading in the right direction,” said the former Buccaneers defender.

“We’re fighting, and what makes me happy is that we’re more structured now. Against a quality side like the Pirates, to keep them at bay for over 80 minutes is a positive for us. 

Of course, we dropped too deep towards the end and invited pressure, but there are a lot of positives to build on.

Yandisa Mfolozi. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Our supporters have stuck with us despite the defeats, and I want to thank them for that. I’m urging them to come out in numbers on Sunday – I believe they’ll witness our first victory at the Slaughterhouse.”

The derby kicks off at 15:00 on Sunday at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Rocklands.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh