Pirates, Stars near showdown
PLATINUM Stars have not been involved in a cup final since 2006, but Dikwena will have every reason to believe they can go all the way in Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates. Stars have matchwinners to turn the game around at Durban’s Moses Mabhida — but so do the Buccaneers, who beat rivals Kaizer Chiefs to progress to their third Top 8 final in four seasons.
Key battles to watch include: The Malawian not only helps out in defence, but has also managed to score crucial goals to send Dikwena to the final.
It was Manyisa’s long-range effort in the 107th minute that clinched the title the last time Pirates were crowned champions of this cup at FNB Stadium two years ago, narrowly beating Chiefs 1-0. Manyisa will be buoyed by his performance then and he has improved since. Ng’ambi, on the other hand, will be determined for cup success as Stars seek reward for their impressive run following their second-place finish in the Premier League last season. initely look to for goals and that is Bacela. The striker punished SuperSport United in the quarterfinals and his penalty was enough to send the Buccaneers to the finals after beating Amakhosi 2-1 on aggregate. Bacela has silenced the boo-boys, and Mhlongo will have a tough time keeping him quiet. Mhlongo has backed the “young” Dikwena team to reach greater heights even with the departure of Cavin Johnson, their coach last season. Mhlongo’s leadership from the back has been crucial, and he is a match-winner in his own right. He is also a former Buccaneer, which adds to the thrill.