Johannesburg – In their last five games, Orlando Pirates’ stylish offensive play has failed to produce positive outcomes.
This week’s Premiership match against Golden Arrows and MTN8 semi-final second leg vs Mamelodi Sundowns will require a new strategy.
Mihlali Baleka examines five players who will need to stand up in order to alleviate the strain on new head coach Jose Riveiro.
Kermit Erasmus
Given his scoring prowess during his first term with the Pirates six years ago, Kermit Erasmus was greeted with a rapturous welcome upon his return to the team last month.
In his three appearances, he has left an indelible mark, scoring the equalizer against AmaZulu on Friday to win his team a point.
Erasmus will need to continue scoring goals in the MTN8 this week against Arrows and his previous team Sundowns.
Nkosinathi Sibisi
Sibisi has had a solid beginning to
Due to his excellent form, he appears to be the first player on Riveiro’s team sheet on game day.
As he missed a penalty kick against AmaZulu, he had a moment to forget. However, due to the random nature of penalties, Riveiro refused to blame the hefty defender.
Sibisi would want to regain his confidence by delivering a strong performance against his previous team Arrows and then assisting the squad in reaching the MTN8 final.
Ndabayithethwa Ndlondo
The No. 15 jersey is among the most renowned at the Pirates, having been worn by legends like as the small former captain Benedict Vilakazi.
Since his arrival a month ago, though, Ndlondlo does not appear to be smothered by the pressure associated with wearing the number. He has instead learned to enjoy pressure.
And like Vilakazi and co., he will aim to achieve legendary status with the club, a difficult task considering he must create, assist, and score goals, as well as win games.
Miguel Timm
Timm’s start with the Pirates has been so positive that he has appeared in all 12 matches this season. He has played a crucial role in the Buccaneers’ outstanding defensive record.
Timm has desires to win trophies with the club after winning the Nedbank Cup with Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila; therefore, he must guard the back four and assist the attacking unit in scoring goals in the final third.
Siyabonga Mpontshane
The severity of Richard Ofori’s injury is still unknown; hence, 36-year-old experienced goalie Siyabonga Mpontshane will start the next two games.
Before Saturday’s encounter, Mpontshane has only appeared in one game this season. He made a brief appearance in the second half after Ofori limped off the field.
Sure, he’s rusty, but he’ll have to rely heavily on his experience to try to propel Pirates up the league standings and into the MTN8 final.
@MihlaliBaleka