Richards Bay will hope to make two out of two wins against Orlando Pirates in quick succession this season, but are under no illusion on what they are up against.
Bay will host Pirates at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday (15:30), having defeated their illustrious opponents recently in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final at Moses Mabhida Stadium a few weeks ago.
On that occasion, young goalie and scholar Philasande Manqele was the star in goals, saving a penalty of Deon Hotto, which was crucial as Bay won 5-4 on penalties after the game ended goalless in 120 minutes.
It is not clear whether Manqele will be part of the side as school exams are in full swing and Salim Magoola might man up the posts for Kaitano Tembo’s side.
The club released a statement a few days ago that there are clubs who are trying to tap Magoola up and it will be interesting to see if his head will be in the right place, should he start.
But despite the selection challenge for Tembo, the former Sekhukhune United coach can’t wait for the game to start, though cautioned that Bucs will have wind in their sails, having won the last two matches, including the much-anticipated Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs.
“We are looking forward to the game against Pirates,” said Tembo.
“Of course, it is not going to be an easy game, but a very tough one. They are coming off two wins against Sekhukhune United and the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs, so they are high on confidence.
“But we need the points, that is the most important thing. We are playing the game to try and win. We are also playing at home. But the boys are looking forward to the game, but we are ready.”
Bay comes to this game having won at home for the first time this season, as they beat bottom side Cape Town Spurs before the international break.
It was also the club’s first DStv Premiership win at home since beating Moroka Swallows on 31 December last year. This game against Pirates will be the first time Vusi Vilakazi will be on the bench after he was appointed as a Senior Coach following his Chippa United departure.