United face bogey team

SISA MAJOLA

JOHANNESBURG - Plucky Santos could prove to be SuperSport United’s biggest test in the late stages of the Premiership.

And both teams are gearing for a crunching fixture set for Athlone Stadium tonight.

United coach Gavin Hunt has never been one to shy away from a battle, as will be the case when his side confront Santos – the team he has always regarded as the hardest to play against.

The workman-like play of the People’s Team has been groomed to perfection by their coach Boebie Solomons.

And with striker Erwin Isaacs in the mix, they have one of the most talented players in the country.

Hunt had tipped the Capetonians as his surprise contenders for the league crown this season.

His predictions were proved not that far off when Santos moved into second spot in the standings – and stayed there for quite some time.

Their recent drop in form has seen them slide to fourth in the standings with 40 points from their 25 games.

They are officially out of the league race now, following their loss to Platinum Stars on Saturday.

But, just as United had to scrap for a 2-2 draw in their first meeting in October, they will not be guaranteed any favours this time around.

“We have not beaten Santos in the league since I arrived at United,” said Hunt.

“Every team does want to beat us, but that is not unusual.”

United will carry some confidence following their 2-0 win over Free State Stars on the weekend, an improvement from their disappointing draw against Orlando Pirates a few days prior.

Their new strike combination of Dario Monteiro and Anthony Laffor will need to be razor sharp in Cape Town where a loss or a draw could possibly see Mamelodi Sundowns move into the number one spot if they manage to beat Dinaledi tomorrow.

United currently have 51 points from their 26 games, with a three points lead over Sundowns.

The advantage at this moment looks as if it’s slightly tilted with “The Brazilians” since they carry a cushion of having played one game less than their Tshwane neighbours.

United can defy some odds – and their record against Santos – and pave a way for their ambition of winning a third successive Premiership trophy.

Whichever way the result goes, the league is certainly set for an exciting climax.

The match will kick-off at 7.30pm.