Orbit College coach Pogiso Makhoye says his side will focus on their own performances as they continue their fight for survival in the Betway Premiership.
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Survival takes centre stage at Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday at 5.30pm as Marumo Gallants host Orbit College in a Betway Premiership encounter that could prove decisive in the relegation battle.
With just a single point separating them from bottom-placed Magesi FC, both sides enter this clash fully aware of what is at stake.
Positioned 14th and 15th respectively, the fixture carries the weight of a classic six-pointer — one that could shape the trajectory of their respective campaigns in the final stretch.
Neither side comes into the match in good form, adding to the tension surrounding the contest.
Orbit suffered defeat to Kaizer Chiefs in their last outing, a result that extended their losing streak and further exposed their defensive vulnerabilities.
Gallants, meanwhile, endured a damaging 3-0 loss to Magesi — a direct rival — in what was arguably one of their most concerning performances of the season.
The recent run of results paints a worrying picture.
Orbit have now lost three consecutive matches, including defeats to Siwelele FC and Mamelodi Sundowns, struggling particularly in front of goal and failing to convert promising moments into tangible outcomes.
Gallants find themselves in a similar position, also on a three-match losing streak after falling to Magesi, Sundowns and Golden Arrows.
Beyond form, the psychological aspect of this encounter cannot be overlooked. With the pressure of relegation looming large, both teams must find a way to handle the occasion.
A win would not only provide three vital points but could also inject belief and momentum at a time when confidence is fragile.
Orbit’s season has been a steep learning curve. As newcomers to the top flight, they have shown flashes of resilience but have struggled for consistency across the campaign.
Their defensive record and lack of cutting edge in the final third have left them exposed, particularly against more experienced opposition.
Gallants, on the other hand, have battled to establish rhythm throughout the season.
Their inability to string together positive results has kept them entrenched in the bottom half, and with matches running out, the margin for error continues to shrink.
The reverse fixture earlier in the campaign ended in a 1-1 draw, underlining how little separates these two sides.
That result may offer little comfort now, however, as both teams require maximum points rather than stalemates.
Complicating matters further is the presence of teams just above them on the standings.
Chippa United remain within reach, while others hovering in mid-table are not entirely safe either, meaning the battle to avoid relegation could tighten even further in the coming weeks.
Ultimately, Sunday’s clash is about more than just points. It is about survival, composure under pressure, and the ability to deliver when it matters most.
With so little separating the two sides, fine margins are likely to decide the outcome in what promises to be a tense and hard-fought encounter.