The Star Early Edition

SALENG TAKES PSL CAMPAIGN BY STORM

SALENG’S raw speed, dribbling ability and direct play make him a nightmare to play against.

- SMISO MSOMI

IT is true what they say about hiring the right actor for the right movie. The script of Orlando Pirates’ flying winger Monnapule Saleng is one very few would’ve written.

The 24-year old Saleng has taken the 2022/2023 campaign by storm, producing a consistent streak of high quality and high-profile performanc­es, reaffirmin­g Pirates coach Jose Riveiro’s decision to hand him his chance.

Saleng’s eye-catching performanc­es have endeared him to the Buccaneers faithful in recent weeks, his moments of incredible skill also capturing the hearts of the ‘Kasi football’ loving section of all supporters.

The likes of Mamelodi Sundowns trio Andile Jali, Aubrey Modiba and Rushine de Reuck have all been victims of Saleng’s trickery in their recent MTN8 bout, all left for dead as he powered Pirates to the final.

Being the 2020/2021 National First Division (NFD) top scorer while with Free State Stars earned Saleng his move to the Sea Robbers at the beginning of the 2021/2022 campaign, however he was deemed inexperien­ced and sent out on loan to Swallows FC.

Such is his confidence, Saleng has always felt he could compete for a starting berth at Pirates, previously stating that he didn’t need to go on loan in the previous campaign – and he seems to be backing his utterances now, keeping out the likes of Kabelo Dlamini and Vincent Pule.

Saleng’s raw speed, dribbling ability and direct play make him a nightmare to play against when defending 1v1, which does not bode well for Pirates’ upcoming opponents.

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 ?? ?? MONNAPULE Saleng of Orlando Pirates. | MUZI NTOMBELA BackpagePi­x
MONNAPULE Saleng of Orlando Pirates. | MUZI NTOMBELA BackpagePi­x

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