Betway Premiership preview: The league begins to take shape

While it is still far too soon to draw definitive conclusions, the direction of the campaign is starting to take form.

Coaches and players alike will now be aware of the areas that need urgent fixing as we head into week five of the season.

This weekend brings with it another round of fascinating clashes, with new boys Orbit College still trying to get on their feet. Here's a closer look at four key matches to keep an eye on.

Marumo Gallants v Polokwane City

Marumo Gallants started the season like a house on fire, securing back-to-back wins that positioned them as early pace-setters. However, that spark has since fizzled out. Bahlabane ba Ntwa have suffered two consecutive defeats, raising concerns about whether their initial run was just a temporary burst of energy.

Adnan Beganovic's men will be desperate to rediscover their winning formula when they welcome Polokwane City to the Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday.

Rise and Shine have experienced a mixed start of their own — one win, one defeat, and two draws. While they may not have been consistent, they have shown resilience, and this makes them dangerous opponents for a Gallants side searching for answers.

Both sides will be eager to stamp authority, knowing that momentum at this stage could be crucial in shaping their campaigns.

Magesi FC v AmaZulu

The Seshego-based outfit are yet to record their first victory of the season, with two draws and two losses to their name so far. Their most recent outing ended in disappointment as they fell to Golden Arrows in midweek.

Known as Dikwena tsa Meetse, Magesi remain one of only two sides — along with Chippa United — still searching for a maiden league win. The pressure is starting to mount, and the weekend clash against AmaZulu could be pivotal.

Usuthu, under the guidance of Arthur Zwane, have been steady if not spectacular. With two wins, a draw, and one loss, they've shown enough quality to suggest they could trouble the upper half of the table. For Magesi, the task is clear: turn promise into points. For AmaZulu, it's about building consistency.

Sekhukhune United v Durban City

Table-topping Sekhukhune United have made their intentions clear from the outset. Babina Noko are yet to taste defeat and have amassed 10 points from their opening four matches. Their blend of solid defensive structure and clinical finishing has set them apart as one of the early league contenders.

They will host Durban City at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday in what could prove a stern test. Gavin Hunt's newly promoted Durban side made an encouraging start with back-to-back wins, but they have since slowed down, recording two consecutive draws. Sitting on eight points, they remain within touching distance of the leaders and will be motivated to close the gap.

For Sekhukhune, victory would mean consolidating their place at the summit. For Durban City, it's an opportunity to prove they can challenge the league's established sides.

Orbit College v TS Galaxy

Orbit College's first taste of top-flight football has been a baptism of fire. With just one victory and three defeats so far, the Mswenko Boys are learning quickly how tough life can be at this level.

Their spirited showing against Orlando Pirates in the previous round, despite the result, offered a glimpse of their potential.

They now welcome TS Galaxy to Dobsonville Stadium on Saturday.

The Rockets are brimming with confidence after a commanding 2-0 win over Siwelele FC. That result not only boosted their points tally but also their morale heading into this encounter.

For Orbit College, it's about converting good performances into results. For Galaxy, it's about sustaining momentum and pushing higher up the log.