After winning seven games in a row in the Betway Premiership, Orlando Pirates' biggest challenge to remaining at the top of the pile has been revealed.
Pirates won their first seven games in a row and seven in succession at any point of the season, for the first time in the PSL era after their narrow 1-0 victory over Richards Bay FC on Tuesday.
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They have clinched a maximum of 21 points at the top of the table and are three points clear of second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns.
To remain at the summit, one of the major problems the side could not challenge for the league title in other seasons, in particular 2023/24, was their poor away form.
Jose Riveiro's men are yet to be severely tested away, as they have only played two league matches on the road so far.
Last season, they were winless on their travels in their first four away fixtures and got their first victory as visitors at the fifth attempt after edging arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 in the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium.
Out of 15 away fixtures, Bucs only won five games, with a below par average of a 33% win ratio on the road.
They could only accumulate 20 points from a maximum of 45 as an away team, something that the class of 2024/25 would need to be aware of and improve if they are to stay ahead of the curve.
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Pirates will have a break of almost a month before they open their CAF Champions League group stage campaign against CR Belouizdad on 26 November.
The test of character for in the Betway Premiership will resume on 3 December when they visit Marumo Gallants.