Orlando Pirates travel to Durban to face an AmaZulu side on a three-match winning streak. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media The growing expectation of finally lifting the club’s most elusive piece of silverware has grown significantly for Orlando Pirates, who face a stern examination away to AmaZulu as they look to sustain their momentum when the two sides meet at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday night (7.30pm kick-off). While the fixture may, on paper, resemble a David versus Goliath encounter, recent form suggests it will be anything but routine for the Buccaneers, who, despite their impressive run this season, know that any slip-up could prove costly in an unforgiving title race.
It is remarkable that a side unbeaten in their last 12 matches can still find themselves under so much pressure, even while sitting level on 32 points with log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. But such is the benchmark set by the defending champions that merely staying in contention demands a level of consistency and excellence that borders on the extraordinary. The weight of expectation to deliver the league title rests heavily on coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who arrived at the club with several new faces in the squad and immediate demands for success. Although he has already guided Pirates to two trophies from a possible four this season, the reality is that failure to secure the league crown could still see his campaign scrutinised, highlighting the desperation among the club to end a long and painful wait for this title.
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