Only 48 hours after being drawn to meet in the Absa Cup, Orlando Pirates and Bloemfontein Celtic face each other in a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match-up of equal importance at Ellis Park on Wednesday night.
Specifically, ”round one” of the Pirates-Celtic rumble could reveal which of the teams are best equipped to challenge for second place in the log behind defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns who, at this relatively early juncture, seem certain of retaining their title.
Celtic, bolstered by a loyal, unwavering supporter base, have emerged as one of the PSL’s most entertaining teams — both on and off the field — and present a test for the Buccaneers, who have yet to confirm a status of genuine class, despite a noticeable improvement in results since Democratic Republic of Congo coach Bibey Motombo assumed control.
Currently occupying sixth position in the log, Celtic could vault dramatically into second place with a victory over Pirates.
The Buccaneers, four points behind Celtic but from one fewer game, would earn a position among the top eight teams in the PSL for the first time this season with a victory.
Thus this prelude to the Absa Cup is of major importance in its own right to both teams.
Sundowns, having gone 11 games in various competitions without tasting defeat, travel to Thohoyandou to face what is invariably an awkward fixture against Black Leopards. Anything less than a victory for the champions would constitute a major surprise.
Wits University and Silver Stars, two of the 10 clubs vying for a runners-up place at the end of the season, will look upon victory as essential when they meet at the Bidvest Stadium. — Sapa
PSL fixtures for Wednesday
Orlando Pirates vs Bloemfontein Celtic at Ellis Park (7.30pm); Black Leopards vs Mamelodi Sundowns at Thohoyandou (7.30pm); Wits University vs Silver Stars at Bidvest Stadium (8pm)