What needs to happen at the Buccaneers?
With the club on a quest to find new faces who will help the club get back to their best again, here are some suggestions Phakaaathi’s Tshepo Ntsoelengoe makes to build a strong and competitive side.
Strong-willed keeper
It all starts at the back, the goalkeeping crisis seems to be a never-ending disaster at Pirates. The club hasn’t had a capable shot-stopper since the late Senzo Meyiwa was murdered almost three years ago. At some point, it seemed as if Brighton Mhlongo would be able to carry the team as their first-choice No 1, but inconsistency in his performances have since cost him his place. The other goalkeepers on the books, Siyabonga Mpontshane and Jackson Mabokgwane, have not put up their hands to stake their claim either. The team needs someone with the experience of Wayne Sandilands (above) who is reportedly on his way out at Mamelodi Sundowns. His vast experience between the sticks would benefit the team especially after losing out on Ronwen Williams who pledged his loyalty to SuperSport United by extending his stay for a further five years.
Leader at the back
The Buccaneers seem to have no one to control the rearguard, a role in which Sangweni and Lucky Lekgwathi excelled in. Thulani Hlatshwayo (above) of Bidvest Wits comes to mind for this role. He does it week in, week out and he would be a great signing for Bucs.
Midfield boss
Pirates have lacked someone to boss the midfield since the departure of Andile Jali. But new man Thamsanqa Sangweni looks like he could fill that void. A ball-player and defensive player like him is what Pirates have been missing. The likes of Issa Sarr has not really taken well to the role The pairing of Sangweni and Oupa Manyisa (below) could be just what the doctor ordered for the Buccaneers.
No problems up front
With proven goalpoachers like Tendai Ndoro (above) and Thamsanqa Gabuza, Pirates don’t have a problem with strikers. Add to the pair the likes of Thabiso Kutumela and Ayanda Nkosi, who are yet to be given a chance to prove themselves, and you have a lethal strike force.