Chippa United head coach Thabo September is urging his players to leave everything on the pitch in their final Betway Premiership match against Marumo Gallants, as the battle for a top-eight finish goes down to the wire.
The Chilli Boys find themselves locked in a three-way tie on 30 points alongside Kaizer Chiefs and Marumo Gallants. However, unlike their rivals who still have two matches to play, Chippa only have one remaining fixture — making Saturday’s clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium a do-or-die encounter.
“A win is non-negotiable,” September told SowetanLive. “We’re safe from relegation, so now it’s about pride, ambition, and finishing the season on a high. We have one final shot to make a statement and show we deserve to be among the league’s top sides.”
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Chippa head into this critical match on the back of a humbling 3-0 defeat to champions Mamelodi Sundowns — their second straight loss to Masandawana. Despite the result, September remained encouraged by the effort and structure his team showed, particularly in the opening half.
“There was a great response from the players. In the first half, we pressed high and disrupted their play. It was unfortunate to concede, but we competed well,” he explained.
September acknowledged the quality and depth of the reigning champions ultimately proved too much. “In the second half, Sundowns used their depth to manage the game and scored twice more. We created chances but didn’t convert.”
With only one match left to influence their fate, Chippa’s hopes of securing a top-half finish hinge entirely on beating Gallants, who are equally desperate to climb the standings. Chiefs, also sitting on 30 points, still have two games in hand, meaning goal difference and head-to-head results could come into play.
Still, September is focused solely on what his side can control. “This is our final shot. We have to give it everything and show we belong among the league’s top teams.”
A victory could propel Chippa into the top eight, depending on results elsewhere, and would mark a significant milestone for a club that’s often flirted with the bottom half in recent seasons. For September, it’s not just about points — it’s about proving progress.
This match is expected to be a hard-fought contest as both Marumo Gallants and Chippa United fight for league positioning.
Gallants, with their strong home record at Thohoyandou, will look to exploit their advantage in front of their supporters. They have been resilient throughout the season, often delivering a solid performance on their turf.
However, Chippa United have shown signs of life recently, picking up vital points that have kept them out of the relegation zone. They’ll aim to take advantage of Gallants’ inconsistent form in away matches. Both teams will be highly motivated, and the outcome will likely impact both clubs’ survival hopes and mid-table ambitions.
Kick off at the Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium is set for 15h00 later today.