Orlando Pirates have multiple talented players in all positions. That’s convenient, seeing as though a key man has been struck down.
Pirates star Lebitso faces a spell on the sidelines
Orlando Pirates’ first-choice right back Thabiso Lebitso faces a spell out after picking up an injury against Marumo Gallants in December. Although the Sea Robbers have several backup options, it’s not ideal. Lebitso has been a key operator this term, clocking 1,121 minutes in the side. Deano Van Rooyen, by comparison, has played just 309 minutes. Kamogelo Sebelebele has clocked an impressive 1,044 minutes, owing largely to his versatility on the right-hand side. However, he’s not necessarily first-choice for the fans even though he showed his worth last season with goals in each of the MTN8 semi-final legs against Sundowns.
Dieketseng 1060 said:
“I think Lebitso’s timing of going up and getting back is better than van Rooyen and Sebelebele. His passing is always offensive and not wasteful like these two. Van Rooyen is the worst when it comes to passing. Sebelebele, when he is in the third of the opponent, does not share the ball with teammates; he always wants the glory. He needs to remember that the cut-back is better than the angle he is coming from. His tackles are also always suspicious. Lebitso knows better.”
Crunch time for title-chasing Orlando Pirates
Pirates remain in pole position to claim their first league crown since 2012 after a Relebohile Mofokeng-inspired win over AmaZulu. However, to say the remainder of February could be make or break for their title ambitions is an understatement. Here’s what’s ahead in the month of love, including matches against defending champions Sundowns and surprise title rivals Kaizer Chiefs: