Pirates star issues rallying call ahead of Sundowns clash – ‘While they are still sleeping…’

Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has urged his teammates to take advantage of Mamelodi Sundowns’ struggles when the two sides clash.

Pirates host Sundowns in the PSL at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening and head into the match enjoying a six-point lead over the champions.

This is after last Saturday’s 3-0 win over Marumo Gallants, at a time when Sundowns were involved in the CAF Champions League, and have a chance to extend to nine points with a win on Wednesday.

Sundowns in worrying form

Sundowns’ form has been shaky this season with five wins in their last 10 games, having drawn four and lost one over that period.

Their performances have not been impressive even when winning and that is what Makhaula is urging his teammates to capitalise on at the FNB Stadium.

“Yes, they are not playing well at the moment but it’s not like they are losing, they are winning,” said Makhaula as quoted by iDiski Times.

Why Pirates must capitalise

“Once they find their form, then it becomes difficult. While they are still sleeping, we must wake up.

“If you don’t wake up while they are still sleeping it’s gonna be difficult because they haven’t found their momentum, you have to capitalise, not only Pirates all 15 teams.”

Pirates have been the club chasing Sundowns in the title race in the last three seasons but tables have turned this campaign with Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team going 14 league matches without defeat since losing back-to-back in the opening two weeks.