Makhaula aims for redemption after Pirates draw with Sekhukhune

Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula says playing to a draw with Sekhukhune United in their DStv Premiership clash has made things difficult for them in their quest for the Caf Champions League qualification for next season. 

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Pirates were held to a 1-1 draw by Babina Noko in their last game of the season at Orlando Stadium on Saturday. 

Bucs took the lead through Terrence Dzvukamanja in the 31st minute. But, Sekhukhune’s defender and former Pirates player Edwin Gyimah levelled matters seven minutes later. 

Makhaula, who is in his first season with the Sea Robbers, says the outcome of the match was disappointing for the Buccaneers as they failed to consolidate their place on the log. Pirates are now level on 51 points with SuperSport United, with the Buccaneers holding on to the second spot on the log only on goal difference. 

“We wanted to win today (Saturday),. But we got a draw and it’s quite disappointing for us. We wanted to make things (qualifying for the Caf Champions League) easier. But we just made them (Caf qualification) a bit difficult, even though we are number two on the log. But it will depend on our last game,” said the hard-working midfielder, who was named Man-of-the-Match.

Makhaula’s promise to Pirates fans

Makhaula has made a promise to the club’s supporters that they will make things right in their next games. 

The midfielder vows that they will fight for maximum points in their last league game of the season aand his former club AmaZulu FC next week. And he says winning the Nedbank Cup will also be a good redemption for them for the draw against Sekhukhune. 

Pirates play Sekhukhune in the Nedbank Cup final at Loftus Stadium on May 27.

“We are sorry we didn’t get three points. But we will definitely make you proud. I think we have to go all out in our last game to get three points. And another thing is that we still have the Nedbank Cup coming. So we have a lot to make up to them because of the draw,” he concluded. 

READ MORE: Pirates’ Champions League hopes hang in the balance after draw with Sekhukhune

For their last league game of the campaign, the Buccaneers battle it out with Usuthu at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, while SuperSport visit Sekhukhune.