Orlando Pirates will be aiming to keep their title ambitions alive when they face Marumo Gallants in a crucial Betway Premiership clash at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Saturday. Kick-off is set for 5:45 PM, and the stakes could not be higher for the Buccaneers, who are desperate to stay in the title race.
Jose Riveiro’s men have shown resilience in recent matches, coming from behind to defeat Cape Town City 2-1 last weekend. However, they remain behind Mamelodi Sundowns, who could stretch their lead if they defeat Kaizer Chiefs in an earlier fixture on Saturday.
Chasing the Leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns
The Buccaneers are currently 15 points behind league leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns, but they do have four games in hand over the Brazilians. Should Sundowns secure a win over Kaizer Chiefs earlier on Saturday, their lead will extend to 18 points, making the stakes even higher for Pirates.
The Buccaneers are well aware that every remaining match in their campaign is crucial if they are to mount any form of challenge against the dominant Sundowns. Their postponed fixture against Royal AM earlier this week added frustration, as they lost a chance to gain ground in the title race. While they have the advantage of games in hand, points on the board remain key, and their clash against Marumo Gallants presents an opportunity to keep their dream alive.
Orlando Pirates Frustration Over Postponed Match
Pirates were initially scheduled to face Royal AM midweek, but the match was postponed due to the legal issues surrounding Shauwn Mkhize’s side. Speaking after his team’s 2-1 victory over Cape Town City, Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro expressed his disappointment over the delay, noting that while he understands the challenges faced by Royal AM, he would have preferred to play to reduce the gap on Sundowns.
“It’s a very difficult topic to comment on,” Riveiro said. “There’s a bit of uncertainty around what will happen with that group of players, and I hope they find the best solution. We’re all talking about people trying to do their jobs.”
Focused on the Next Challenge
While understanding the situation, Riveiro admitted that he would have preferred to play and focus on the league. “It’s a waste of time to dwell on things that may never happen,” he continued. “We must now focus on the next game, which is against Marumo Gallants. It’s another ‘final’ for us to prepare for.”
Jose Riveiro’s Optimism Despite the Gap
Despite the significant points gap, Riveiro remains optimistic about his side’s chances of catching Sundowns. “There’s still a chance to close that gap. We have to work hard to make it happen, and it’s still possible,” he affirmed.
However, Pirates will have to navigate this important fixture without Riveiro on the sidelines. The coach is suspended for Saturday’s clash after receiving his fourth yellow card of the season during last weekend’s match against Cape Town City.
Marumo Gallants Dealing with Absences
Marumo Gallants will also be missing a key player for the encounter. Midfielder Monde Mphambaniso, who received his fourth yellow card of the season in Gallants’ 0-0 draw against Polokwane City, will be absent from the game.
A Key Fixture for Both Teams
For Pirates, this match is a must-win as they seek to keep their faint title hopes alive. A victory would not only boost their confidence but also apply some pressure on Sundowns. On the other hand, Gallants are fighting their own battle in the league. Sitting dangerously close to the relegation zone, they need every point they can get to avoid being dragged further into the survival scrap.
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