Head Coach, Stuart Baxter said that he is expecting a tough encounter this weekend when his charges take on an in form Free State Stars in their own backyard, at Charles Mopeli Stadium, QwaQwa this weekend.

Kaizer Chiefs and Free State Stars are the only clubs in the Absa Premiership that have not dropped any points, occupying the first and second spot respectively.

Free State Stars lost both home and away against Kaizer Chiefs during 2011/12 season with Lincoln Zvasiya scoring a dramatic winner at Soccer City Complex and Josta Dladla grabbing a winner deep in the injury time. Free State Stars were able to get the better of Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup. Fireworks are expected to fly this weekend when the two come face to face.

Head Coach, Stuart Baxter was at his usual self this week going about his duties at the Village and on Thursday morning he spoke highly of Free State Stars a team coached by his former colleague at Bafana Bafana, Steve Kompela.

“We played against them (Free State Stars) during the preseason and I have had time to look at the DVDs of their last two games. They are quite a good team. A much organised side. They have good players and a good Technical Team. They are playing at home and it will be difficult to beat them,” said Baxter.

Baxter also believes that understanding Steve Kompela’s philosophy as a Coach will not play any part on his game plan; “I do not think it is an advantage. I will have an understanding on why they tried something for instance or even their intentions but that’s where it ends.

Baxter was satisfied with the preparations ahead of the trip to Free State; “Following our game against Mamelodi Sundowns we focused on recovery and general conditioning of the team. This week we have been more specific in training.

“The team is highly motivated at this stage and we are ready for the game this coming weekend. The players understand the importance of us doing well in each and every game. We will once again approach the game against Free State Stars with a winning mentality.

“The breaks in between have not helped much especially when a team is in good period you want to just get on with the fixtures but it has not been the case. It will maybe bring more hunger to the players or they can respond differently.

Baxter also welcomed new signing Tsepo Masilela to the team; “It was one of those transfers that the team was working on before my arrival. It was always going to happen before Morgan’ (Gould)injury. He is a welcome addition to the squad and brings a lot of quality having played in Europe and Bafana Bafana.

“We want to make sure he is fit before we play him. It is important for him that he understands our style of play. I am looking forward to working with Tsepo,” added upbeat Baxter.

The game kicks off at 15:00