Thabo ‘Jomo’ Rakhale sounded exhausted when he spoke about tonight’s MTN8 quarter-final clash against Ajax Cape Town.
And rightly so, as Orlando Pirates have not had a proper rest during the off-season, with the side having had to play most of their CAF Confederations Cup matches during this period.
Pirates won their fourth Carling Black Label Cup over the weekend on penalties, after they had returned from a 26-hour long flight home from Tunisia three days before Saturday’s game.
Rakhale, who scored the only goal in their away win against CS Sfaxien a fortnight ago, admitted their bodies were now starting to give in to fatigue following their impressive run in the CAF competition. However, the creative midfielder said it was crucial for Pirates to continue with their winning momentum when they lock horns with the Urban Warriors in tonight’s game.
“It has been a hectic schedule for us so far,” Rakhale said. “But we know that we have to fight for a win in every game we play in. (Tonight’s) game will not be any different. We are going to fight for a win. That’s what we want to get out of this game.”
Roger de Sa and his charges, on the other hand, go into this one with the psychological edge of knowing that Eric Tinkler will be without five of his key players.
The Sea Robbers will be without two of their main strikers after Kermit Erasmus and Thamsanqa Gabuza suffered hamstring injuries.
Thabo Matlaba is also expected to miss tonight’s game as he is still recovering from an injury (hamstring) he sustained a fortnight ago. Rooi Maha-mutsa andMenzi Masuku have also been ruled out as both are still undergoing medical treatment. Masuku injured his foot against Chiefs, while Maha-mutsa is still recovering from his Achilles tendon injury.
Rakhale said that while the injuries were a concern, the situation will also serve as a perfect opportunity for other players to show what they can offer the team.
“It’s a bit of a setback for us,” he said. “These are players who have played a key role in helping us to win most of our previous matches and they’ll be unavailable for this one.
“This is a major concern for us. However, it is also a perfect opportunity for other players to show what they have to offer. The technical team has been working around the clock to ensure we have a competitive squad for the game. I’m confident that we are going to win this one.” - The Star