After a break for three weeks, the affiliates for the National First Division will be in action again this weekend.

It remains to be seen whether Moroka Swallows will rise to the occasion and beat Black Leopards when they meet at the Dobsonville Stadium in Johannesburg tomorrow afternoon. While things are moving from bad to worse in the Swallows’ camp, Black Leopards are fast restoring their lost pride following the return of their former coach, Mr Kostadin Papic.

Swallows disappointed the fans before going to the festive season break when they unexpectedly lost 0-1 to the NFD rookies, Mthatha Bucks. The defeat pushed the Birds deep into the relegation quagmire as they are now lying on the third last position on the log. On the other hand, Lidoda Duvha gave their supporters a Christmas gift in the form of league points, when they beat Thanda Royal Zulu 1-0 at the Thohoyandou Stadium.

The most important thing Black Leopards must do tomorrow is keep a watchful eye on Swallows’ veteran striker, Siyabonga Nomvete. Leopards’ right back, Jonathan King, will be available for selection tomorrow. King was out of action for three months due to injury. Should he be given a chance, King can form a deadly combination with Dunga Munganga and Lebohang Mabotja at the far back.

Witbank Spurs will host Cape Town All Star in Emalahleni. Milano United will fly to Phuthaditshaba in the Free State where they will lock horns with African Warriors. Baroka and Amazulu will clash at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane and Royal Eagles will take on FC Cape Town in Pietermaritzburg.

Sunday will see Thanda Royal Zulu take on Highlandspark at the Umhlathuze Sport Complex in Richards Bay. Mbombela United will pay a visit to Vasco da Gama in Cape Town, while Santos will host Mthatha Bucks at the Athlone Stadium in Cape Town next Tuesday, January 12.