Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has laid down the mandate for the crucial Betway Premiership clash against Richards Bay FC on Friday night at Umhlathuze Sports Complex.
The Soweto giants are forging ahead with their push to clinch the league title, chasing Mamelodi Sundowns, who have won the trophy for the last eight seasons.
Pirates made a big statement in the title race after a rampage 5-0 win over Golden Arrows at Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday to boost their goal difference, which could be the decider in the tight league chase.
The Sea Robbers remained second on the log standings with 54 points in 23 games, while Sundowns are sitting at the summit of the table with 56 points. This weekend, Masandawana will not be in league action due to their continental commitment, as they’ll face Esperance de Tunis in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final away from home on Sunday.
WHAT NCIKAZI SAID ABOUT PIRATES’ PLANS FOR RICHARDS BAY CLASH
On the other hand, Pirates will be looking to use Sundowns’ participation in the Champions League to their advantage and move to the top of the log with a win against the Natal Rich Boys. The Buccaneers have been in fine form, scoring 11 goals in their last two encounters. This includes a 6-0 victory over TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium before the FIFA international break.
As a result, Pirates are approaching the game against the KZN-based side with their tails high as they search for three points, and Ncikazi has over-emphasised that the mandate for Pirates is to get maximum points.
“Unfamiliar territory, I don’t think we ever played the game there [Umhlathuze Sports Complex], but that is not important. Whatever the field, as long as there is a piece of land, we are prepared to go there and give it our best shot with preparations, recovery, and analysis,” said Ncikazi.
“We must go to Umhlathuze and get three points. Orlando Pirates, that’s your responsibility and mandate, nothing less,” the former Golden Arrows mentor added.
RELATED STORY: Why Pirates’ Mandla Ncikazi is confident about the new season