Orlando Pirates are set to pursue their fifth Betway Premiership title in the PSL era when they take on Orbit College this Saturday.
The Buccaneers need a victory to have a chance of surpassing Mamelodi Sundowns at the top of the standings.
With Sundowns having completed their season, their attention has shifted to the CAF Champions League final’s second leg.
This scenario is not new for Pirates, as they have faced critical final matches in their previous title runs.
Their inaugural PSL-era championship came during the 2000/01 season under the management of Gordon Igesund. It proved to be a challenging season.
Following the tragedy at Ellis Park, which claimed the lives of 43 fans, the team experienced a significant drop in performance. Frustrated supporters even invaded the training ground and confronted Igesund.
However, the Pirates bounced back decisively. They clinched the title with a 3-0 victory against Ajax Cape Town, despite suffering a defeat in their final match against Kaizer Chiefs.
In the 2002/03 season, Roy Barreto led the Pirates to another league title, this time with a commanding presence.
Pirates ended the season six points ahead of their rivals, having conceded just 16 goals throughout the campaign. A late equalizer from Lesley Manyathela against Wits clinched the championship.
The 2010/11 season featured one of the most thrilling conclusions in PSL history.
Pirates triumphed over Golden Arrows 2-1, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Isaac Chansa. They also relied on Ajax Cape Town’s results against Maritzburg United.
When Ajax drew 2-2, Pirates secured the title on goal difference. The team defended their title in the following season under Julio Leal and Augusto Palacios.
On the last day of that season, they triumphed over Golden Arrows 4-2, with Benni McCarthy scoring twice in a remarkable comeback.
Another exhilarating chapter is set to unfold against Orbit College as the league season concludes.
Will the current Buccaneers demonstrate the necessary composure to secure a victory, or will they falter at this crucial moment? The resolution to this question will be revealed by 5 pm this afternoon.
