Orlando Pirates head to Mbombela Stadium today with one goal: reclaim the top spot. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Orlando Pirates will travel to TS Galaxy in a Betway Premiership clash at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday (kick-off 3.30pm), knowing that nothing less than victory will suffice if they are to reclaim top spot in the title run-in.
Pirates are currently second on the log with 48 points, two behind leaders and reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns after 21 matches. With Sundowns occupied by continental commitments this weekend, Pirates have a chance to return to No. 1 with a win over Galaxy, having surrendered top spot to the Brazilians following a 1-1 draw with Siwelele at home.
However, it won’t be straightforward. TS Galaxy are desperate for points after a six-match winless streak, which includes five defeats and a draw in their most recent outing.
Meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal sides Golden Arrows and Durban City will host Sekhukhune United and Richards Bay at King Zwelithini Stadium and Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday at 3:30pm and 6pm, respectively.
These are matches both teams will be eager to win. Arrows have been inconsistent this season and are pushing for a top-eight finish, currently sitting ninth on the log with 25 points – just thre behind eighth-placed Stellenbosch.
Durban City are also under pressure to bounce back after their recent loss to Chiefs. They understand that reaching at least the 40-point mark is crucial to securing safety from relegation and improving their chances of a top-eight finish. They currently sit on 32 points.
The final fixture on Sunday, also kicking off at 3:30pm, will see Siwelele host Orbit College at Free State Stadium.
*Mihlali Baleka is Independent Media's senior football reporter and a panelist on the group's soccer podcast, The D-Line, which is exclusive on our YouTube channel The Clutch