By Michael Madyira
Orlando Pirates aim to avoid a fourth consecutive Premier Soccer League match without a win as they face Polokwane City in Saturday’s showdown at Peter Mokaba Stadium.
The Buccaneers have gone for three league games without tasting victory.
It is a run that has further widened the gap between them and log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who enjoy 16 points more than Pirates with a game in hand.
Jose Riveiro’s side, currently fifth on the table, blew their chance to get into second spot after dropping points in their last three games.
“We are really determined to get our league campaign going, having not won the past three league games. We must get back on track,” Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki told Sowetan.
While the Soweto giants are trying not to lose more games, Polokwane City have avoided defeat in their last three outings.
The Limpopo outfit is ninth in the standings with 24 points from 17 matches.
However, what could motivate Pirates is their emphatic 6-0 victory over Crystal Lake last weekend to advance to the Nedbank Cup Round of 16.
“Winning against Crystal Lake has really boosted our confidence and we hope we can transfer that form into the league,” said Xoki.
Avoiding another winless outing is key for the Buccaneers if they are to keep track of second-placed Cape Town City, who are ahead of them by five points.
It would also boost their bid to secure a CAF Champions League spot for next season.
“A big club like us have to play CAF competitions every season,” Xoki said.
“We were very disappointed with how our Champions League campaign went this season so we are eager to qualify again this season and go there to make corrections. It’s our responsibility as players to make sure Pirates play continental football every season.”
The Buccaneers face Polokwane City without central midfielder Miguel Timm who is suspended after being red-carded during the 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates winger Monnapule Saleng tussles for possession against Polokwane City’s Given Mashikinya.
Image source: Orlando Pirates
