Local football fans have taken to social media to question Orlando Pirates’ continued absence from midweek Betway Premiership fixtures.
The league resumed with midweek action last week, with sides such as Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs already featuring.
Pirates, however, were notably missing from the schedule and only returned to action over the weekend.
The trend continues this week, with the Buccaneers again not in midweek action while their title rivals prepare for their third league matches of the year.
Sekhukhune United, who were held to a goalless draw by Pirates over the weekend, are set to play their third league fixture on Tuesday.
Orlando Pirates not playing midweek
Some supporters believe Orlando Pirates are receiving preferential treatment, particularly given that the club is no longer involved in the CAF Champions League.
With games in hand and no midweek commitments, questions have been raised about the Premier Soccer League’s scheduling decisions.
One supporter, @SMBa_Za, wrote: “Pirates never played midweek PSL games when they had CAF on weekends. Hence why they ended up playing their league games after the season ended. Lol, they’re trying by all means to win the league.”
Another fan, @Mkhathini_03, simply asked: “Why aren’t Orlando Pirates playing midweek games?”
Others went further, accusing the league of unfairness. @King_R3000 tweeted: “Sundowns will play midweek, weekend CAF and again midweek before meeting Pirates, while Pirates will get two weeks off to prepare for the Downs game. Corruption at its best.”
Calls for fixture adjustments have also emerged, with @Mr_Zakess stating:
“Can’t we adjust Orlando Pirates’ games? This thing of not playing midweek is killing us.”
Interestingly, not all criticism came from rival supporters. Some Pirates fans expressed concern over a lack of match sharpness.
“That’s a good thing, match fitness is king! As a Pirates supporter, I would urge management to ensure Pirates play regularly,” tweeted @thulani_mdavu.
“Did you see how we played? Pure nonsense. That’s what happens when a team doesn’t play regularly. I hate the fact that we are not playing midweek.”
With Orlando Pirates not playing midweek, they could find themselves in fourth position should Sekhukhune United and Kaizer Chiefs win their matches.
The Buccaneers host Magesi FC this weekend at the Orlando Stadium.
Can Pirates earn their first win of the year?
