By Michael Madyira
It’s a high-stakes affair as Richards Bay take on Orlando Pirates in a season-defining PSL match at Orlando Stadium on Saturday night.
Pirates are bidding to finish the term in second position while their opponents are battling against relegation at second from the bottom.
The Buccaneers closed the gap to one point on second-placed Stellenbosch a week ago and will be keen to build on that progress.
But that might not be easy as they face the Natal Rich Boyz, who are desperate to survive the chop.
“Stellies are still ahead of us by one point. That’s the reality,” Pirates coach Jose Riveiro told the media.
“They are still depending on their own performances and results. We have to continue putting pressure on them and push as much as we can.
“The remaining games are tight for both the teams, that’s for sure. But at the same time, it’s a nice fight.”
Even if Richards Bay win, they will remain 15th in the standings but hope it will be a step towards getting out of the relegation zone.
“With Cape Town Spurs getting a victory on Wednesday, the situation at the bottom is getting tight. Richards Bay will come here desperate and try to collect points,” said Riveiro.
Meanwhile, Stellenbosch travel to relegation-haunted Moroka Swallows on Saturday as they seek to consolidate position two.
The Maroons have it in their hands, and victory will see them pile pressure on Pirates to catch up.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates winger Patrick Maswanganyi being challenged by Somila Ntsundwana.
Image source: Orlando Pirates
