Maritzburg United will be eyeing a strong start to the new Absa Premiership season as they aim to avoid a repeat of last season’s woes. The Team of Choice travel to Bloemfontein Celtic for their first match of the year, at the Dr. Molemela Stadium on the 24th of August 2016. The match and the 2016/17 campaign present the KwaZulu-Natal side with the chance to start afresh after their great relegation escape last year. Marketing and Communications manager Brian Zuma says they are ready. Maritzburg fans can also look forward to an almost completely new-look team that will do duty against Celtic. They have strengthened considerably in their backline with the addition of former Siwelele captain Bevan Fransman, Bryce Moon and Themba Tshabalala, all expected to play. Another ex-Celtic man in Bongani Mpandle could be in goal, whilst their attack has been bolstered by Andrea Filleccia. Zuma said that the Belgian was ready to play despite a recent long-term injury. He could partner the club’s Player of the Season from last year Evans Rusike in attack, while Deolin Mekoa is also back from Olympic duty and ready to fire