Maritzburg out to spoil Pirates' party

Maritzburg United will square off with Orlando Pirates in an Absa Premiership match at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Wednesday.

Kick-off is at 7:30 pm CAT.

The Team of Choice recorded their third defeat in their last four league matches when they lost 1-0 to Highlands Park away over a week ago.

The defeat saw Maritzburg remain 16th on the league standings - four points behind 15th-placed Baroka FC with four matches left.

Meanwhile, Pirates extended their unbeaten run to seven matches in the league when they defeated Free State Stars 2-1 at home over a week ago.

The victory saw Bucs extend their lead at the top of the league standings, but they are now three points behind second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand.

WHAT ARE THE TEAMS SAYING

Maritzburg United coach Eric Tinkler

“Orlando Pirates, tough game, but we should be motivated to play against Orlando Pirates," he said.

"The win is even more important now than in seasons gone by, this season it’s about our survival and collecting three points against Pirates is extremely important to us."

Orlando Pirates coach Milutin Sredojevic

"We are happy with the three points (against Free State Stars). But our focus now shifts to Maritzburg United for our next game," he said.

"We don’t want to think about the title. We are now focusing on the next game and working on our performance. The Maritzburg game will be tough.”

MARITZBURG KEY PLAYERS

Fortune Makaringe: The midfielder has established himself as one of the top attackers in the PSL this season despite Maritzburg's struggles. Makaringe has the ability to inspire his side to victory over Pirates.

Thabiso Kutumela: The striker is most likely to face his former side for the first time since leaving Pirates in January 2019. Kutumela will be looking to haunt Pirates and help Maritzburg win at home.

ORLANDO PIRATES KEY PLAYERS

Musa Nyatama: The midfield maestro has re-established himself as Pirates' first-choice midfielder having recently netted against Free State Stars. Nyatama will be keen to inspire Bucs to victory in Pietermaritzburg.

Justin Shonga: The striker netted his sixth league goal of the season during Pirates' victory over Free State Stars. Shonga will be eager to score again and help the Buccaneers defeat Maritzburg.