NEWS: ‘As long as they keep singing I’m happy’ – Jose Riveiro lavishes praise on Orlando Pirates fan favourites Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi, Tshegofatso Mabasa

Mabasa scored consecutive braces with a latest double in Pirates’ 2-0 win over Chippa United in the DStv Premiership on Wednesday while also ascending to the top of the scoring charts.

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The 27-year-old has now scored an impressive 15 goals in the league this season with three matches left to play.

While the emerging Maswanganyi, nicknamed “Tito” by the Buccaneers faithful has announced himself as one of the stars of South African football with five goals and five assists to go with his many Man of the Match accolades.

Riveiro, who usually prioritises the team ahead of individuals, was happy to admit that he is pleased with the adoration shown to his two star performers.

“As long as they [fans] continue singing because they [Maswanganyi, Mabasa] are performing well, I’m happy,” Riveiro said.

“Like I said many times, the fans identify the players that they like, the players that bring them to the stadiums and who they like to see on the ball.

“Right now, we have many of those players in a good moment, in good form and our fans are absolutely happy with them.

“If they want to sing names, when the players are doing a good job, it’s a good thing.

“Everyone around needs support and that’s the most important that we’re getting that support as a team in recent weeks from our fans.”

Pirates next host Richards Bay in a DStv Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 20:00.