Ajax sweating over Coetzee's fitness

A bad fall on his shoulder in training after returning back from national team duty last weekend ruled Rivaldo Coetzee out of Ajax Cape Town’s last game in Maritzburg United.

But coach Stanley Menzo is hopeful he will pass a late fitness test before Wednesday’s clash against Highlands Park at the Cape Town Stadium.

Coetzee’s participation has been made more important for the home side as the match is key for both clubs in their battle against potential relegation.

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Highlands are expected to have Collins Mbesuma back in their attack after a lengthy injury lay-off.

A groin problem rules Rheece Evans out of the match as Ajax await scans to determine the extent of his injury and midfielder Grant Margerman serves the last of a two-match suspension.

“We really do hope that Rivaldo will be fit enough. We left him out for the Maritzburg trip because we only want players who are 100 percent fit‚” Menzo explained.

“Highlands look to be a difficult team to beat.

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"The games they have lost have only been by a single goal.

"They are not a big footballing team‚ their quality is in their setpieces.

"We have to be very careful not to give away too many free kicks.

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"I think they will let us have the ball and they will look to counterattack.

"As we are playing at home of course we must make a real game of it‚” he added.

Ajax are still looking for their first victory of 2017 after a sparking run of form up to Christmas.

Highlands Park dropped to bottom place after Baroka won on Tuesday night over Free State Stars.

- TMG Digital/TMG Sport