Orlando Pirates are currently, just two points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who sit on 56 after playing the same number of games. That narrow gap means the Buccaneers have a real chance to apply serious pressure at the top.
A win tonight would take Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team to 57 points, moving them above Sundowns and into first place.
PRESSURE ON ORLANDO PIRATES AGAINST RICHARDS BAY FC
However, anything less than a win could prove costly. A draw would take the Soweto giants to 55 points, still behind Sundowns, while a defeat would leave them stuck on 54 and open the door for teams like Kaizer Chiefs, who are third with 39 points but have games in hand.
Also read: Orlando Pirates’ expected starting 11 vs Richards Bay
PLENTY OF REASONS FOR CONFIDENCE
Pirates have built their season on being sharp in front of goal and rock solid at the back. They’ve scored 45 goals in 23 matches , the highest in the league, with Mamelodi Sundowns next on 42. At the same time, they’ve conceded just nine goals, the least in the division, giving them a strong goal difference of +36.
It’s a big step up from last season, with the team already scoring more league goals than they did in the entire previous campaign.
Going forward, the goals have been shared around, with five different players scoring five or more in the league. Relebohile Mofokeng has stood out the most, leading the team with nine goals and five assists as one of the league’s top performers.
Also read: Reports: Another top coach linked with Kaizer Chiefs
At the back, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has been key, keeping 16 clean sheets in 23 matches and providing a solid foundation for the title push.
DO YOU EXPECT MAMELODI SUNDOWNS OR ORLANDO PIRATES TO WIN THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP TITLE IN MAY?
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