Retired PSL Star Backs Orlando Pirates to Finally End League Title Drought

A retired PSL goalkeeper believes Orlando Pirates are on the verge of finally lifting the elusive Betway Premiership trophy after another strong campaign — and with a R20 million prize on offer, motivation will be high.

Pirates finished second in the league for a third consecutive season, secured the MTN8 title, and reached the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League. However, they once again fell short of their ultimate domestic goal: claiming the Premiership crown.

Former PSL shot-stopper Thabang Stemmer says he was impressed with the Buccaneers’ overall performance, despite the sudden departure of head coach Jose Riveiro, which he feels had a big impact.

“I’m impressed with Pirates because they had a great season, to be honest. It’s just that the coach left the team, which isn’t easy for either the players or the technical staff, as they lost a leader who had a great impact,” said the 45-year-old.

Stemmer pointed to the packed fixture list as another reason why the team faded late in the campaign. “The Pirates players looked tired from the numerous matches they played this past season. They played more games than the majority of clubs in the PSL, and because of that, I’m not disappointed.

“Losing Riveiro was like losing a parent to these players. Hopefully, the chairman will soon announce a new head coach so everything can settle down.”

Looking ahead to next season, Stemmer believes Pirates are well-positioned to finally end their title drought but must bolster their attacking options to truly match rivals like Mamelodi Sundowns.

“I believe that because of the great season we’ve had, the players are secure, but as we know, big teams are always looking to add quality players whenever available in order to compete for trophies,” he said.

Stemmer added that depth up front is where Pirates must focus their recruitment if they hope to take the final step. “We need more attacking players, like Sundowns. They substitute an attacking player for another attacking player at Sundowns. We need the firepower up front if we want to challenge for the league title. We’re ready to win it next season.”

With key signings and the right leadership in place, Pirates could be primed to break their Premiership title drought and finally claim South Africa’s top prize. Expectations will be high when the new campaign kicks off — and the Buccaneers faithful will be dreaming of seeing their team lift the trophy at last.