Betway Premiership: Tshegofatso Mabasa Sets Bold Target as Pirates Chase Premiership Glory
Orlando Pirates forward Tshegofatso Mabasa's made bold declaration about his ambitions for the remainder of the season setting his sights on finishing as the Betway Premiership’s top scorer for the 2nd consecutive year.
Aiming for the Golden Boot
Despite occasional inconsistencies, the 28 year old striker's had standout moments, netting 2 hat tricks [one in 8 - 1 demolition of Marumo Gallants in Dec,] and [another in the Nedbank Cup Round of 16 against Baroka FC].
Mabasa's registered 13 goal and one assist in 34 appearance across all competitions. In the league, he currently has 5 goal but is aiming to surpass Mamelodi Sundowns Lucas Ribeiro who leads the scoring charts with 13.
"I see myself finishing first, My target is 18 goal and I believe I'll achieve it by the end of the season” Mabasa confidently stated during press conference at Rand Stadium.
Tactical Insights & Motivation
Mabasa's basing his goal scoring target on his observations throughout the campaign.
“It’s about the chances I’ve received, how defenders react when I’m on the pitch and statistical analysis of my performances,” he explained.
Pirates Eyeing Premiership Glory
Orlando Pirates sit 2nd in the Betway Premiership standings with 40 point, trailing Sundowns by 18 point. with 4 game in hand, victory against the log leaders at FNB Stadium on Sunday could cut the gap to 15 point with further reduction possible if they win their rescheduled matches.
Winning the league title would be historic achievement, according to Mabasa.
“We've already created history but this would cement our legacy as players,” he said.
Recognizing League Competition
Mabasa also acknowledged the high level of competition in the league.
“There's a lot of quality in this league, players like Yanela Mbuthuma at Richards Bay & Shaun Mogaila at Sekhukhune United. But mentality makes the difference.”