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Stars happy to go back to QwaQwa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Free State Stars return to their once happy hunting ground - Charles Mopeli Stadium in QwaQwa - for Saturday's Telkom Knockout game against Maritzburg United.

Mike Mokoena, Stars' chairman, said the PSL resolved to take the game to Namahadi since Goble Park and Welkom stadiums were not available.

"The report we have received is that Welkom Stadium is being renovated, the owners are busy installing a new irrigation system.

"As for Goble Park, the facility should be ready in three to four weeks due to the upgrading process as part of the 2010 World Cup legacy projects.

"The changes won't affect our preparations for the game because are familiar with Charles Mopeli."

Saturday's game will also be the first official fixture of their new coach, Themba Sithole, who was recruited from First Division side Carara Kicks.

During the Macufe Cup in Mangaung two weeks ago, Ea Lla Koto were defeated 0-1 by neighbours Bloemfontein Celtic in the final.

"Themba is a great coach who knows the culture of the club very well, we have every confidence that he will take Stars to the greater heights," said Mokoena.

For United, they welcome back Gary Goldstone who has completed his suspension for elbowing Kaizer Chiefs' striker Tshepo Bulu two months ago.

Weekend fixtures:

Saturday

Charles Mopeli: Free State Stars v Maritzburg United 3pm,

Super Stadium: Mamelodi Sundowns v Bay United, 8pm

Sunday

Princess Magogo: Thanda Royal Zulu v Orlando Pirates 3pm,

Olympia Park: Moroka Swallows v BidVest Wits, 3pm

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