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Pirates out to banish the ghost of Richards Bay

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has expressed concern about the threat posed by Richards Bay who troubled them last season.

The Soweto giants visit the Natal Rich Boyz for Sunday’s Premier Soccer League clash at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium.

Even after enjoying a positive start to the league campaign following victories over Chippa United and Polokwane City, Riveiro is not reading much into it.

They face a Richards Bay side who denied them victory three times last term.

The Natal Rich Boys held Pirates to a 0-0 draw in the two team’s first league meeting before stunning the Buccaneers 1-0 at Orlando Stadium in the return fixture.

What could be the biggest upset came when the Natal Rich Boyz dumped Pirates out of the Carling Knockout 5-4 on penalties following a goalless draw after extra time.

“We have played two games and we are so happy to collect maximum points in these games, but right now our focus is on Richards Bay,” Riveiro told the media.

“It goes without saying that it’s going to be a tough game and if we want to collect the maximum points, we need to focus only on that one.”

They come up against Richards Bay who have already played three games this season, winning their opening match 1-0 over TS Galaxy before being beaten 1-0 by Chippa United and then the midweek 0-0 draw with Royal AM.

This is a side that was fighting against relegation for the better part of last season, even during the three times they frustrated the Sea Robbers.

Pictured above: Orlando Pirates winger Patrick Maswanganyi being challenged by Richards Bay attacker Somila Ntsundwana.

Source: Orlando Pirates