Orlando Pirates attack poses tough task for struggling Chippa United

Chippa United have the unenviable task of stopping the free-scoring Orlando Pirates when the two sides meet at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday.

The Buccaneers had a recent change in their coaching staff, with Josef Zinnbauer taking over the hot seat.

Free-scoring Orlando Pirates loom large

In the six games since the German’s arrival, they have averaged two goals a match on their way to five wins and a draw.

For Chippa, the new year has not been as kind in terms of results, but they will be looking to shut down their opponents, according to captain, Veli Mothwa.

“Most of the time that is what we are working on getting, a clean sheet. If we do not score, we don’t let our opponents score as well,” he said.

“A clean sheet will give me a positive boost going into our next match.”

Veli Mothwa

A special occasion for Chippa United

Chippa go into the clash on the back of a 3-0 defeat to Supersport United, who they defeated in the reserve leg in Port Elizabeth.

They will be hoping that a similar change in fortunes goes their way against the Buccaneers, who they lost away to earlier in the season.

A win will be paramount for the men from the Windy City, who are also celebrating a milestone.

“It’s a normal day for us players, but yes, for the team it’s a big day as we are celebrating 10 years,” Mothwa said.

“But each and every game that we play is important. So our Saturday game is like any other game in the league. We need to get three points in order to further distance ourselves from the relegation zone and climb up into the top eight spot.”

Veli Mothwa

Chippa are 12th in the league standings, after managing just five wins in 20 league games.

Their opponents have a game in hand, but are among the title contender in fourth place on the log.

Kick-off at Nelson Mandela Stadium is at 18:00 (SAST).

Chippa United vs Orlando Pirates starting XI

Chippa: TBA

Pirates Sandilands, Maela, Jele, Nyauza, Mabaso, Motshwari, Makaringe, Memela, Pule, Lorch, Mhango.

Subs: Delle, Ndengane, Mako, Ndlovu, Monyane, Muwowo, Shonga