Ncikazi: Pirates Focused On Top Spot Despite Unfamiliar Territory
Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has emphasized the team’s unwavering determination to secure maximum points against Richards Bay, despite the “unfamiliar surroundings” of a sold-out Umhlathuze Sports Complex this Friday evening.
The Buccaneers enter this crucial Betway Premiership encounter with a clear objective: reclaiming the summit of the league standings.
The Title Race Numbers
The math for the Soweto giants is simple. A victory on Friday will propel Pirates to 57 points, moving them one point clear of current log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns (56 points).
With the Brazilians sidelined from domestic action this weekend due to CAF Champions League commitments, Pirates have a golden opportunity to seize the momentum in the title race.
Buccaneers in Scorching Form
Pirates arrive in KwaZulu-Natal brimming with confidence following two of the most dominant performances in recent PSL history. The 2025 MTN8 champions have scored 11 goals in their last two matches, following a 6-0 hammering of TS Galaxy and a 5-0 demolition of Golden Arrows.
High Stakes for the “Natal Rich Boys”
Richards Bay, however, will be no pushovers. The home side is fighting for a spot in the top eight; a victory would move them into eighth position with 29 points. Motivated by a recent home win against Stellenbosch, the “Natal Rich Boys” are looking to cause an upset in front of their home fans.
Completing the Double
This fixture marks the second meeting between the sides this season. Pirates claimed a 2-0 victory in the reverse fixture at Orlando Stadium in March and are now hunting for a comprehensive league double.
Despite the hype surrounding the venue, Ncikazi insists his squad remains unfazed by the logistics.
“It’s unfamiliar territory; I don’t think we have played a game there before,” Ncikazi admitted. “But that is not important. Whatever the field—as long as it is a piece of land—we will be prepared. We will give it our best shot in terms of preparation, recovery, and analysis.
“Our responsibility and mandate as Orlando Pirates is to go to Umhlathuze and get three points. Nothing less.”
