It’s a totally new Bucs marching to Loftus
Keeper urged to put 6-0 loss in the past
Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane should not be haunted by ghosts of the past season when he conceded a half-dozen goals against Mamelodi Sundowns, says Augusto Palacios.
The Buccaneers will return to the ground where they suffered a 6-0 hammering against Sundowns last season.
The two giants face off at Loftus Versveld in an Absa Premiership clash tomorrow afternoon (3.30pm).
“I think Jackson should just forget about the past and focus on the present moment and get a good result against Sundowns,” said Palacios, who was in charge of Bucs when they went through their most difficult period.
“It was a different time then, and situation. The mentality of the team is different now under a new technical team.”
Victory for Pirates would be an immense psychological boost as it would not only reduce Sundowns’ lead at the top of the table, but will give them belief of challenging for the title. The Brazilians are currently leading the championship race with 31 points while Pirates are on 23.
As they attempt to snap a five-match losing streak against Sundowns, Pirates will be without their skipper Thabo Matlaba due to suspension. It remains to be seen if usual stand-in captain Abbubaker Mobara will deputise as he has been linked with a move to Bidvest Wits.
Mobara is reported to be the subject of a swap deal with Wits midfielder Xola Mlambo.
Attempts to reach Pirates senior administrator Floyd Mbele were unsuccessful.