Ajax Cape Town coach Stanley Menzo says the fact that Orlando Pirates are under more pressure to secure a top eight spot could work in their favour in their Absa Premiership tie on Wednesday evening.

The Urban Warriors have endured a season of ups and downs in the league campaign, but following an unbeaten run of three consecutive games with no goals conceded, Menzo believes that his side can sneak their way into the top half of the table.

With both sides vying for a top eight spot, the Ajax Amsterdam goalkeeper likened the game to a cup final, but more so for the Soweto giants than the Mother City based-outfit.

‘Yes, it is like a cup final, but more of a cup final for them than for us,’ he told reporters

‘Where they are coming from, they have to win, and we want to, so we are going to go there and try to save our top eight position. But it’s up to them to see what they can do.

Menzo revealed his annoyance at the suspension of winger Mark Mayambela, who picked up a needless yellow after taking too long to walk off the field in the win against Bloemfontein Celtic.

‘I don’t understand this attitude – I don’t know where it comes from.

‘I understand he may not have been fully in the game as he was afraid of collecting another yellow card, and I understand that – as a coach, you have to make certain decisions. But his attitude coming off the pitch was wrong,’ he added.

Menzo finally eluded to his sides turn in form and suggested his side are believing in their capabilities again.

‘It’s a spirit that comes suddenly, and sometimes you need some luck. The belief is there, the energy is there.

‘We always look for new challenges – first we were safe, then we were trying to win our top eight position back, and now our next challenge is four in a row, which would make our top eight position okay,’ he concluded.

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