Sundowns showing gives Boebie hope



16 February 2010

Santos coach Boebie Solomons wants his side to take the positives they showed against Mamelodi Sundowns into their next match, against Bidvest Wits, on Wednesday night.

The match against the Clever Boys takes place at the Bidvest Stadium in Johannesburg with kick off at 19H30.

Santos drew 0-0 with the Brazilians, but missed several good chances to win the game, also hitting the bar through Mogogi Gabonamong.

The defence put in a solid showing as they held on for an onslaught from Sundowns in the final 10 minutes.

“The team played well and we showed good organization in defence. We looked good in our build ups and although luck was on our side once or twice, we also created chances, so it was a performance I was happy with and one from which we can build,” said Solomons, who enjoyed a previous stint as the Wits coach.

Santos are however going to have their work cut out against their Jo’burg opponents.

Lead by former Peoples’ Team coach, the Students will be desperate for points after recent results have seen them sinking down to 14 th spot on the league table standings.

Santos will be without the suspended Bongi Macala, after his sending off against Sundowns.

Additonal team news from team manager Yusuf Gester

"As well as Bongi, Romano Scott will also miss the next match due to a 1 match suspension (3 yellow cards).

"Other concerns on the injuries are Tyren Arendse (injured vs Supersport 9/2/10), he is battling hard to regain fitness but remains doubtful.

"Goalkeeper Tshepo Motsoeneng is still recovering from the injury sustained against Mamelodi Sundowns. The medical team are working overtime to try and get both players ready for our upcoming fixture against Bidvest Wits on Wed 17/02/10.

"The mood is very high after a string of very good performances (event though) we were unfortunate not to get the desired results. I am very positive that the team will be victorious against the Students."

Results after the January break:

Santos

Mamelodi Sundowns 0 - 0 Santos
Santos 1 - 2 SuperSport United
Platinum Stars 1 - 0 Santos
Free State Stars 3 - 3 Santos

Wits

Free State Stars 1 - 1 Bidvest Wits
Bidvest Wits 0 - 0 Orlando Pirates
Black Aces 1 - 1 Bidvest Wits