Former Orlando Pirates coach urges Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi to continue showboating - 'This negativity stems from our people's fear of Europeans'

South African legend Teboho Moloi has defended the flamboyant skills displayed by Orlando Pirates players during their matches.

In the star-studded Bucs squad, Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi frequently showcase showboating, and a section of local football fans and analysts have been critical of them.

Nonetheless, Moloi, who also used to dish out the same style as Mofokeng and Maswanganyi during his playing career, believes that showboating is part of SA's football culture.

"If you are an Orlando Pirates supporter and you are not happy with what the boys are doing, then there’s something wrong with you," Moloi told KickOff.com.

"Let’s encourage the current generation to embrace this style even more. Instead of being overly critical, we should advise them on how and when to showcase their skills.

"Showboating is a derogatory term. This negativity stems from our people's fear of Europeans. I, for one, am not afraid. I taught Arsenal how football is played in South Africa, and it took me to Turkey. The same so-called showboating allowed me to flourish there," he added. 

"You can’t separate Orlando Pirates from their style of play. Pirates and entertainment go hand-in-hand. It should be called 'show-me-your-number' instead of 'showboating'."

Pirates remain unbeaten in the Premier Soccer League this season thus far, having won their first seven games. 

The Buccaneers have also kickstarted their Caf Champions League group stage campaign in a positive way after beating Algeria's CR Belouizdad during the week. 

Mofokeng, a favourite amongst South African football fans, showboated during Bafana Bafana's match against South Sudan recently.

Mofokeng and Maswanganyi will be aiming to continue entertaining their supporters when Pirates compete against Stellenbosch FC in a PSL match on Sunday.

The Sea Robbers will be striving to preserve their 100 per cent PSL win record and have a successful journey in the Champions League group stage.