Watch VideoOrlando Pirates look to end busy year on a high … with or without Appollis and Co

Orlando Pirates’ Oswin Appollis has become a key player for club and country in recent seasons. Photo: BackpagePix Orlando Pirates will have one more stop before they conclude what has been a busy year, when they play the Carling Black Label Cup against an All-Star Team on Saturday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Following their triumph in the Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants (1-0) after extra-time, the Buccaneers have secured their place in the ‘Beer Cup’ this coming weekend.

In his first season with the Buccaneers, Oswin Appollis has played a major role in the team’s success, delivering key performances that have made him an important figure as they continue their push to become the top side in the country. This weekend’s match will give Pirates another opportunity to reinforce their dominance against a team selected by fans through a voting system. While it’s uncertain if he, along with his other teammates, will be with the side — given that coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said after the clash against Gallants that he will prioritise the national team — Appollis expressed his satisfaction with what Pirates have achieved so far.

“We have been working hard towards this goal, and we have shown it in the league and with the trophies that we are working towards winning,” Appollis said, referencing both the MTN8 and Carling KO championships this season. “Again we showed in the Carling Knockout final; the boys fought, and we managed to come away with another trophy.” The 24-year-old did not have his best outing on the night, but he added that teamwork and the players pushing each other made the difference, which has been one of their strongest qualities. With less than two weeks before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off, the former Polokwane City midfielder hopes the nine Pirates players selected for Bafana Bafana, who entered camp on Monday, will be well prepared for the tournament. “We still have quite some training to do, but we will go with this form along with the rest of my teammates and work hard to prepare well for AFCON.”