TFGSoccerClub writer DYLAN APPOLIS takes a look at five Orlando Pirates players who could potentially fire the Buccaneers to glory against Kaizer Chiefs in the Carling Black Label Cup on Saturday.
Brilliant Khuzwayo
Khuzwayo looks set to make his full Pirates debut against Amakhosi in the Carling Black Label Cup as he continues to overcome the ankle injury which has kept him sidelined for the whole of the 2018-19 season.
However, the shotstopper is currently leading the voting to start against the Glamour Boys ahead of Wayne Sandilands, Siyabonga Mpontshane and Joris Delle.
Happy Jele
The 32-year-old captain enjoyed a solid campaign with the Buccaneers during the 2018-19 season, missing only one league game through suspension, after he successfully converted to central defender from right back under the guidance of head coach Milutin Sredojevic.
Jele will be roaring to lead the line for the Sea Robbers in their season opener after his side finished the campaign as one the best two in the league, having conceded 24 goals the entire campaign.
Luvuyo Memela
Memela was a revelation for Pirates last season, having scored four goals and assisted a further seven from 14 appearances across all competitions. Despite his constant injuries, on his day the 31-year-old can be a proven threat for opponents.
The Soweto giants will be hoping Memela will show the same form he did during their 4-0 victory over TS Sporting in a pre-season friendly in which he bagged a brace.
Vincent Pule
The 27-year-old winger was one of the standout performers for the Buccaneers last season as they finished runners-up to Mamelodi Sundowns in the Absa Premiership.
Having bagged nine goals and five assists in 38 games in all competitions for Pirates last season, Pule Pule will be one of the players expected to help the club lift silverware, starting with the trophy at the FNB Stadium this weekend.
Thembinkosi Lorch
The 25-year-old was the best player in the league last campaign after netting nine goals and nine assists for Pirates, earning him the Absa Premiership Footballer of the Season and Player’s Player of the Season.
Lorch will be hoping to continue his winning form against their Soweto rivals after scoring an 80th-minute equaliser during their final Soweto derby for the 2018-19 campaign on 9 February this year.
