THE SEA ROBBERS CLAIM THE 5TH NEDBANK CUP QUARTERFINALS SPOT

Written by: Nompumelelo Mncube

Orlando Pirates became the 5th team that joined SuperSport United, Stellenbosch FC,Durban City FC and Marumo Gallants in the Last eight.

Tshegofatso Mabasa pushed the team into the quarter finals as he netted his second hat-trick of the season as the sea robbers edged Baroka FC 3-1 in the Nedbank Cup Last 16 on Saturday afternoon at Orlando Stadium.

Mabasa also scored in three goals during The Buccaneers’ 8-1 victory over Marumo Gallants in the Betway Premiership earlier this season.

The first 10 minutes of the match was a bit rocky for the Orlando Pirates as both teams were creating few scoring opportunities. But the sea Robbers began to turn up the heat as they eventually took the lead in the 29th minute with Mabasa converting Deon Hotto’s cross.

Pirates persisted in their efforts to score a second goal, seeking to solidify their advantage before the break. Mabasa returned to complete his hat-trick in the 63rd minute with Maswanganyi turning the provider once again.

“We’re together, we try to do our best to help the team improve our history together. We are on task,” said Jose Riveiro.

“A lot of turnovers, forced errors and the anxiety. We gave them the possession and if you play and if you play a team of Orlando Pirates’ calibre you have to be smart.”

“But I think it’s a lesson learnt, our players have to learn to interpret the rhythm of the game, maybe making two or three touches, running with the ball.” Baroka interim coach Foster Hlungwani