Cavin Johnson is eager to test his Platinum Stars side against Orlando Pirates when the two meet in the Bokone Bophirima Maize Cup on Saturday.

With the new Premiership season just two weeks away, both sides will likely be using the encounter as a reference point of their readiness for the new season.

For Johnson, however, the match represents more than just another friendly.

‘It is important that we measure ourselves against quality opposition, in terms of tactics,’ Johnson told KickOff.

‘We have to see how far we have come because the league matches are now very close. It is definitely not a friendly match.’

The coach insists he feels obligated to dominate any match played in front of the side’s home fans, regardless of whether or not it is classified as a friendly.

The coach also refused to name his starting lineup but did hint several new signings would be afforded the opportunity to make their mark.

Pirates, for their part, will likely be using the match to continue to improve their chemistry following the arrival of new coach Muhsin Ertugral.

The Soweto giants have flattered to deceive in pre-season thus far, having notably fallen to bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs in the Carling Black Label Champion Cup.

The match will be played at the Moruleng Stadium.

Kick-off is at 15:00.