Jele: Bidvest Wits won't beat Orlando Pirates three times in a row

Orlando Pirates defender Happy Jele says they cannot afford to lose to Bidvest Wits for the third time in a row.

On Thursday, the Clever Boys will face an improving Bucs side which is undefeated in their last six matches in all competitions.

Bucs have tasted defeat twice against Wits this season - in the MTN8 Cup and Premier Soccer League (PSL).

"Yes, they [Wits] have beaten us two times this season, but I don't see them beating us for the third time this time around," Jele told Vodacom Soccer.

"There is no doubt that they have been a much competitive team this season, that has given us tough time," he said.

"But we have gradually regained our form under coach Jonevret (Kjell), and we are prepared to go all out in fighting for vital points in our five remaining games," he added.

"So, we are not going for a revenge against Wits, but for vital points that we badly need," he stressed.

"We are left with five crucial games to finish the season, and to consolidate our top-eight berth we will need to come out with vital points from these remaining games," he concluded.

Wits could be without six key players when they face the Buccaneers in a PSL game at the Bidvest Stadium.

Buhle Mkhwanazi, Mogakolodi Ngele, Nazeer Allie and Xola Mlambo are all nursing injuries.

Key midfielders Daine Klate and Granwald Scott are both suspended.