Mbombela United have recently shown why they cannot be taken lightly in the race for promotion in the National First Division.

A victory away to fellow promotion contenders Witbank Spurs last weekend, and a draw against leaders Baroka FC a week earlier, were just examples of how the team has grown in confidence.

Just six points behind Baroka, fifth-placed United host bottom of the table Moroka Swallows at KaNyamazane Stadium tomorrow.

It's a tricky game against a Swallows side that has improved recently, the Dube Birds going four matches unbeaten as they make a desperate attempt to avoid relegation.

United are good going forward at home, with a record of 17 goals in 12 matches. In defence, however, the "Tingwenyama" have not been so great and Swallows might fancy their chances of getting something out of the game.

United have only kept five clean sheets in their backyard, conceding nine times.

Royal Eagles should also not be discounted in the race for promotion despite their recent separation with coach Khabo Zondo.

Eagles, in third place, moved to within five points of Baroka after the leaders slipped up last weekend against Vasco da Gama.

The KZN-based side will probably reduce it to two points by beating a weak Santos team at Athlone Stadium on Sunday.

Highlands Park, just one point behind Baroka, could be top of the table by the end of the weekend if they beat Cape side Milano United at Makhulong Stadium tomorrow.

A Highlands Park victory would mount more pressure on Baroka, who are involved in the Nedbank Cup quarterfinals this weekend.

Milano have lost their last two matches and they need a solid performance to overcome Highlands.