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Pirates finished outside of the top eight for the only time in PSL history last term under the collective watch of Muhsin Ertugral, Augusto Palacios and Kjell Jonevret.
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However, the Sea Robbers are reasserting themselves with 'Micho' and Mokwena at the helm, as they pursue an Absa Premiership and Nedbank Cup double.
Pirates' revival has not gone unnoticed by Bafana Bafana boss Stuart Baxter, who has invited Mokwena to help him prepare for a four-nations tournament, taking place in Zambia from March 22 to 25.
The Buccaneers are four points shy of log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with seven games left, while on Wednesday night they visit Cape Town City in the last-16 of the cup at Cape Town Stadium.
Memela is focused on the task ahead.
“It’s very important for us to win because we want to win every game we play,” Memela told his club's website.
“We haven’t won any silverware in a while and people are talking about our form and already making us out to be the cup winners, but our thinking is not at that advanced stage yet. We are not thinking of the championship yet because we have a difficult task ahead of us with the Cape Town City clash on Wednesday.”
“We have to approach this match like we have done with every other match, with thorough analysis, preparation and a positive mental attitude. I believe that when we get it right by following instruction and playing to our strengths, there is no team that can deny [or] stop us. Even if we play in the Cape Town weather, or anywhere in the country!”
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The Soweto Derby hero believes his side will enjoy the lion's share of support in the Mother City tomorrow.
“As Buccaneers, we have the unusual advantage of playing at home wherever we play. I am grateful for the overall support that we receive from The Ghost – our family of supporters who are always there for us. They support us when we are down and they encourage us to do better when things are not going our way. I have played for other teams before but never experienced the love and support we get from the Orlando Pirates fans.”
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