The two teams played to a goalless stalemate at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium, but it was a thrilling end-to-end encounter, and with a bit of luck on either side, the result could have been different.

The draw, however, brings an end to Marumo’s three-match losing streak in the league, following defeats to Richards Bay, AmaZulu, and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Monde Mphambaniso. Photo: Morgan Piek

Gallants started the match at a high tempo, like a house on fire, and created several chances. However, in the second half, they began to fade, largely due to their midweek game, which they lost 3-1 to Mamelodi Sundowns after leading 1-0 at half-time.

Gallants had just 24 hours to prepare for the crucial clash against Polokwane, and while a win was the goal, they were satisfied with the point. Off the field, it was also a turbulent week for the Bloemfontein-based team following the sacking of head coach Dan Malesela and assistant coach Molefi Ntseki.

After the game, interim head coach Sundra Govender told OFM Sport that while they were pleased to break the losing streak, his players were physically drained, and his substitutions were made purely due to fatigue.

“Yes, I mean, you could see today as well – the first 15 minutes, we wanted to win the game; 20 minutes, we wanted to win the game. But then Sundowns took a lot out of our players physically,” said Govender.

Sundra Govender. Photo: Morgan Piek

“You could see that we’ve never had to substitute players due to cramps before, but today it showed. Most of our players were exhausted from covering too much ground. Obviously, they were also trying to avoid making mistakes, so our changes were not tactical but rather due to cramping and the physiological demands of the game.”

Looking ahead to their upcoming clash against Orlando Pirates, who are chasing the title, Govender said his team will be much fresher, as they have a full week to rest and prepare.

Bafana Bafana winger and player of the match, Oswin Appollis. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Yeah, look, at least now we have a week to rest. After the Sundowns match, we only had 24 hours to recover,” Govender added.

“So, we have a full week to rest and plan for Pirates. As you saw against Sundowns, anything is possible. We’re definitely going into that match looking to win, and the boys will give everything. I think we’ll be a lot fresher for that game.”

The match between Gallants and the Buccaneers is set to kick off at 15:30 on Saturday at the Toyota Stadium.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg