Orlando Pirates legend Jerry Sikhosana picks a starting XI made up of teammates he’s played with over the years.
Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper: William Okpara – The Nigerian holds the record for most Orlando Pirates appearances having represented the mighty Buccaneers a record 357 times. He’s won every trophy on offer at club level including the 1995 CAF Champions League.
Defenders
Right-Back: Phiri Tsotetsi – Tsotetsi was known for his trademark slide tackles and did an impressive job in dealing with tricky wingers and cover defence.
Centre-Back: Mark Fish – The was a roar of “Fiiiiiiiish!” from the fans whenever he was in possesion for both Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana. His heroics earned him a move to Italian giants, Lazio. Fish also played for the likes of Bolton Wanderers and Charlton Athletic.
Centre-Back: Gavin Lane – “Stability Unit” was a no-nonsense defender who played with passion. He was a great man-marker and possessed aerial strength. He scored the “forgotten goal” in the first leg of the 1995 CAF Champions League final which earned Pirates a 2-2 draw.
Left-Back: Edward Morale – He was the ultimate Pirates left-back who possessed dribbling skills which came in handy when the team had to play out from the back.
Midfielders
Right Midfielder: Dumisa Ngobe – “Sphithiphithi” was known for his incredible work rate and ability to take shots from range.
Central Midfielder: John Moeti – The diminutive figure captained Pirates for a few years. “Dungi” was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that won the 1996 AFCON.
Left Midfielder: Clifford Moleko – The late Clifford Moleko was a talented midfielder but his career was cut short by a fatal car crash. His shirt number 13 was retired to respect his contribution to the team.
Forwards
Right Winger: Brandon Silent – “Sigcebhezane” was a tireless runner who could be deployed as a fullback, winger or wing-back. He played a pivotal role in helping the Buccaneers win the 1995 CAF Champions League.
Centre Forward: Jerry Sikhosana – Scorer of the most iconic goal in Pirates’ history which clinched the 1995 CAF Champions League. “Legs of Thunder” or “Sika MaRazor” will also be remembered for scoring countless times in Soweto derbies against crosstown rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
Left Winger: Helman Mkhalele – “Ncane” was an incredible winger for the Buccaneers and Bafana Bafana. He’s also one of those players who’ve won everything on offer at continental level with both the football club and the national team. Mkhalele played for various Turkish clubs.
Click here to view Brian Baloyi’s team
