Lekgwathi backs Pirates to bridge gap

Orlando Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi says his team can close the seven-point gap to the top of the Premier Soccer League.

Reigning champions Orlando are in fifth on the PSL table, with Mamelodi Sundowns reaching the half-way point of the competition top of the standings.

Speaking to kickoff.com, veteran defender Lekgwathi insists that the Pirates – who suffered five defeats during the first half of the season – are still on track to successfully defend their league crown.

He said the team’s participation in the 2012 edition of the CAF Champions League would not affect their league aspirations, with the club having enough depth to do well in both competitions.

“It was a hectic first half of the season and it is nice to be taking a break,” Lekgwathi said.

“Those who think that we are no longer contenders to win thelLeague should think again. We are determined to defend our title at all costs.”

Lekgwathi says the Pirates have the talent to successfully see off Angolan champions Recreativo de Libolo on February 18 when the two sides meet in their Champions League preliminary round tie.

“In African football, you have to score many goals at home if you want to win and this is our aim. It is a two-legged tie and we have to beat them by a healthy margin here at home so that we create a good foundation,” he said.

“As we have said before, we want to emulate the team of 1995 that proved to be the best team in Africa by winning the Champions League. We also share this dream with our club chairman.”

The Pirates captain says one or two new faces are likely to be added during the transfer window.

“There has been talk of getting one or two players but I will leave that area to the technical team because it is up to them,” he said.