Orlando Pirates continue to face questions about their striking options despite remaining in the Betway Premiership title race.
The Bucaneeers have not depended on a single striker for goals this season. Instead, the scoring has been shared across the squad, with more than one player already reaching close to double figures in the league.
In total, five different players have all contributed between 4 and 9 league goals each, showing a spread of attacking responsibility rather than reliance on one main finisher.
ORLANDO PIRATES GOALS SHARED ACROSS THE TEAM
That spread has led to debate around whether Pirates need a more consistent number nine, especially in tight matches. Former midfielder Mpho Makola believes the responsibility should not fall on one player.
“I think holistically, everybody has to chip in when it comes to goals. It cannot entirely be on the number nine,” Makola said to Soccer Laduma.
“The number they have right now (Mbuthuma) does a lot of work off the ball. As much as his goal scoring ratio is not so impressive, I still feel like he is playing a key role and he can only get better,” Makola added.
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Makola also pointed out that the search for a consistent goal scorer is not unique to Pirates. “Yes, you could say that they need a lethal number, but it’s been a constant battle in our country to get a top striker, unless it’s someone from overseas. It’s not a Pirates problem, but a national problem honestly.”
CAN ORLANDO PIRATES KEEP UP THE TITLE PUSH?
Pirates remain second in the Betway Premiership, although recent dropped points have allowed Mamelodi Sundowns to take control of the race.
Makola believes the team still deserves credit for their efforts this season. “We need to give Pirates a big hand, ” he continued.
“They are really fighting with what they have because cannot compare them to Sundowns in terms of financial status and bringing in players from overseas. With local based players, they’ve done well. You can see that there is hunger and they want the league.
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“I am glad they have been playing well and I am glad that they will hopefully take the title race to the last day. It’s only a matter, if they don’t do it this season, before they win the league and be on top again,” the former Pirates ace concluded.
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