SAILING ON JUST NICELY
Away form does trick for Bucs
Orlando Pirates’ push for the Premiership title could well be aided by their impressive away form this season.
Bucs top the log with 27 points from 15 matches. Of these, 17 points have come from their away matches.
In fact, Pirates have collected more points away than any other side this season.
Last season, Mamelodi Sundowns, on their way to winning the title, collected 34 points from their 15 matches on the road, while Pirates got 23.
This season, however, Micho Sredojevic’s men have been the better side in their opponents’ backyard.
Pirates beat Free State Stars 3-1 at Goble Park, which means they have now won five games, drew two and lost just one away from home.
Sredojevic is not pointing out this statistic just yet, but he’s just happy to see his team collecting points.
“We have told thousands stories that we were so disappointed [to lose the Telkom Knockout final against Baroka] and this was like a blessing in disguise to have a match where we could bounce back. This match could serve as medicine for the pain,” said the Serbian.
Pirates have played a couple of games more than their nearest rivals Bidvest Wits and Mamelodi Sundowns.
It’s, however, the points in the bag that count at this stage and if Pirates can maintain the momentum, while also playing in the Caf Champions League, they could put themselves in a good position to win the title.
Pirates, though, will have to once again assess their defensive frailties after conceding yet again.
From their 15 league outings, they’ve only managed to keep a clean sheet in just four games. They will return to league action early in the new year with an away match against Highlands Park.