Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Rulani Mokwena has made it clear that they will put out their best side to face lower division opponents Mathaithai FC in the Nedbank Cup last 16 on Tuesday.
After suffering only their second defeat in all competitions over the past weekend, Sundowns will have an opportunity to get that winning feeling back when they host a side which got to the last 16 by beating another lower division outfit in NC Pros.
While some of the fringe players at Sundowns are probably looking at this fixture as an opportunity to get much needed game-time, there are no guarantees that they will feature. Some of the players who have not been getting much playing time include George Maluleka, Sibusiso Vilakazi, Reyaad Pieterse and Promise Mkhuma.
"The reality is that the biggest promise we make to players is that the selection is made on meritocracy and we try to merit and reward players who deserve the opportunity to play, based not just on performances in matches, but performances and attitude in training, the body language and how they carry themselves," Mokwena told media ahead of the match at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Tuesday, March 8.
"I think you've seen over the last couple of games how we've gone about with our rotation, giving certain players like Lesedi (Kapinga), Brian Onyango and Grant (Kekana) has come back also. We try to rotate a little bit in the defensive line. Haashim Domingo has been outstanding and he has been given a chance and he has taken it. (Siphelele) Mkhulise has also come in and put his hand up. We've got Kutumela coming back from injury and he is slowly getting into the groove. Neo Maema is also in that type of space and you've seen Kermit (Erasmus) featuring recently. It's not just meritocracy alone, but it's also about the principle of rotation and individual periodization because we've got a lot of games. We will put the best team out on the pitch. We will put the best players."
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