Orlando Pirates are in DStv Premiership action once more this week as they return to Orlando Stadium for a clash against top-flight newcomers Richards Bay FC on Saturday.
It has been a busy October so far for the Buccaneers, who will be running out for their third fixture in the space of eight days, while their opponents head out to the park for the second time this month following their midweek outing.
Form Guide
The return to league football saw the two sides going in opposite directions in the standings, following contrasting results in their respective fixtures.
The Soweto Giants had begun the week in second place, but were stunned by Sekhukhune United on Tuesday as they finished the game with 10 men en route to a 2-0 defeat.
This has dropped them down to fourth on the log, tied on 14 points with two other teams after winning four of their nine league fixtures, losing three and drawing twice.
Pirates will be desperate to return to winning ways but it could prove an uphill battle against the rookies, who boast the best defensive record so far with just three goals conceded in nine games.
Their resolute defence proved crucial once more in their last outing, as they clung on the full 90 minutes against AmaZulu before delivering the killer blow in injury time.
The KwaZulu-Natal based outfit now sit in second place, and have been the biggest surprise package so far this season as they remain unbeaten in their last four league outings, only dropping two points during this period.
Team News
The Buccaneers will be without the services of one player due to suspension, while welcoming another back from a ban.
Wing-back Thabiso Monyane was given his marching orders early in the second half during the defeat to Sekhukhune after picking up two yellow cards. Meanwhile defender Olisah Ndah is again eligible for suspension after serving out a one-match ban for accumulating four yellow cards.
On the other hand, the Natal Rich Boyz could be boosted by the return of experienced midfielder Siphamandla Mtolo, who is back training with the first team after being sidelined by injury.
Key Players
Vincent Pule (Orlando Pirates): Injury threatened to derail the Bucs midfielder’s season once more, but he has returned to the match day squad and has made a few valuable cameos on the pitch. When firing on all cylinders, Pule requires plenty of attention from the defence, thanks to his creative prowess and an accurate left boot which makes him a constant goal threat.
Sanele Barns (Richards Bay): The winger has been a revelation in his debut season in the top flight, and has had a hand in three of his side’s seven goals so far this season. Barns is mainly utilised on the right side of the attacking third, where he has caused problems for defenders with pin-point balls into the box as well as some clever runs on the flank.
Head-to-Head
It will be a bit of a historic occasion in Soweto with Pirates locking horns with Richards Bay for the first time in League football.
Despite the KZN side’s presence in each of the last two editions of the Nedbank Cup, the two teams have also managed to avoid one another in the competition.
How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs Richards Bay
The game is scheduled to kick off at 20:00 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport PSL. You can also follow the action by keeping an eye on live updates provided across Orlando Pirates social media platforms.
Tickets for the game are available online on Ticketmaster plus Computicket outlets across the country, as well as at the Orlando East Community Hall on match day four hours before kick-off.
Please note that printed copies of Ticketmaster tickets, along with screenshots, will not be accepted.
