Orlando Pirates - Baroka FC Preview: The Buccaneers eye winning start in 2018

Orlando Pirates will lock horns with Baroka FC in a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

The Buccaneers extended their winless run to three matches in the league when they succumbed to a 2-1 away defeat to Free State Stars just before the festive break.

Prior to their clash with Stars, Milutin Sredojevic’s side was unbeaten in four league matches having registered three draws and one victory.

Pirates are placed eighth on the league standings with 20 points from 15 matches. They are two points behind fourth-placed Kaizer Chiefs.

Thabiso Kutumela, who netted his first competitive goal for Bucs against Stars, will be looking to score again and help his side secure a home victory.

Meanwhile, Baroka ended their seven-match winless run in the league when they defeated SuperSport United 3-1 at home last month.

Before facing United, Kgoloko Thobejane’s side had recorded four draws and three defeats in the league. 

Baroka are placed fifth on the league standings with 22 points from 15 matches. They are three points behind second-placed Free State Stars.

Talent Chawapiwa, who impressed for Baroka against SuperSport, is the dangerman for Bakgaga and he will look to inspire his side victory.  

In head-to-head stats, Pirates and Baroka have met in three league matches since Bakgaga were promoted at the start of last season.

The three matches have ended in 1-1 draws. Abdi Banda netted for Baroka, while Thabo Qalinge scored for Pirates as the two sides drew in Polokwane in the first round clash last September.