Mbuthuma answers Pirates critics with late brace in Kruger United rout

Orlando Pirates forward Yanela Mbuthuma responded to recent scrutiny from sections of the club’s support by scoring twice in a 4-0 Betway Premiership win over Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night.

Mbuthuma completed the emphatic victory with a late brace, having been under pressure after a barren run in front of goal. The striker credited his persistence in training and said he was delighted to see supporters backing him after his two-goal contribution.

The result was secured by a dominant Pirates performance, with Gamphani Lungu opening the scoring from the penalty spot early in the match. Boitumelo Radiopane then added the Buccaneers’ second before Mbuthuma finished the contest with his late intervention.

Speaking to club media OP TV after the final whistle, Mbuthuma acknowledged the challenge posed by Kruger United and said Orlando Pirates had followed their plan by remaining patient.

“What I can say is that the game was very difficult; these guys (Kruger United) can run! So what we had plan with the coach was to get the win,” Mbuthuma said.

“We knew they were not going to be soft on us, they would come at us, so we tried to stand together as a team, and we were able to score a few goals.

“The coach just told us to be patient and play our football and that we would get our chances. Even if they come at us, we just need to be patient.

“I’m very pleased to see the supporters backing me like this. It’s not difficult to be a striker; you just have to make sure that you as a striker put yourself under pressure because it differs from game to game. Chances are there, and that’s why I was able to convert them tonight. I’m very happy.”

The performance represents an important moment for Mbuthuma, who had faced mounting criticism from some Orlando Pirates supporters because of his lack of goals. His brace has now taken his direct goal contributions across all official competitions to four, consisting of two goals and two assists.

Mbuthuma’s goals also completed a convincing three points for Orlando Pirates and strengthened their position at the top of the Betway Premiership standings.

The Soweto club have dropped points only once in their opening fixtures. Their continued advantage at the summit gives them an early lead in the domestic title race and underlines their strong start to the campaign.

The match came as attention also remained on developments around Bafana, with SAFA unveiling a new coach. Pitso Mosimane’s first words as the new Bafana head coach were also highlighted in coverage surrounding the fixture.