By Michael Madyira
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has been left with no excuses ahead of Sunday’s Premier Soccer League clash with Golden Arrows at Mpumalanga Stadium.
The Buccaneers have been struggling for consistency this season and several factors have been blamed for them blowing hot and cold.
From out-of-form players, and injuries to poor tactics, Pirates have tried to escape criticism since August, a period in which they bowed out of the CAF Champions League and got eliminated from the Carling Knockout.
But as they head to Hammarsdale for Sunday’s date with Arrows, Riveiro has everything in his favour.
The Spaniard’s selection pool has been widened by the return of attacker Thembinkosi Lorch who was suspended by the club after being convicted by a court for gender-based violence.
Riveiro also welcomes back captain Innocent Maela from injury while Thabang Monare has completed serving a two-match suspension.
Right-back Thabang Monare has also recovered from an injury that plunged Pirates into a crisis of playing midfielder Fortune Makaringe into the wing-back role in their last two games.
“Pirates will have the experience of Thabang Monare to call upon, as the midfielder returns from his red-card suspension,” said Pirates in a statement.
“There are further boosts on the injury front, with defenders Innocent Maela and Thabiso Monyane among those who have made significant progress after their respective spells on the sidelines.”
While the Soweto giants are celebrating almost having a full house in their camp, Arrows are decrying the absence of left-back Bradley Cross who is suspended for Sunday’s encounter.
If Pirates beat Abafana Bes’thende, they will jump from fifth to third on the table.
While enjoying a five-game unbeaten streak, they hope to meet a demotivated Arrows side that has lost their last five games across all competitions.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates players at training.
Image source: Orlando Pirates
