McCarthy – who initiated the move that resulted in Pirates' first goal during their 3-1 victory over Bidvest Wits in the Telkom Knockout Cup Final – has been central in the revival of the Julio Leal-coached side, who are now putting their League title defence back on track. Lekgwathi says McCarthy is an inspiration to the young Pirates players who dream of following in his footsteps by playing in the more lucrative European leagues. In a chat with KickOff.com, the Bucs skipper says McCarthy, who had a fruitful 11-year stint in Europe, has not lost any of the hunger and competitiveness that saw him rise to become one of the most potent strikers around during his peak. He says: "Benni has lifted our game. He was not fully fit when he joined us at the beginning of the season but he has been working hard and his efforts are now paying off. "He is established as a player but despite this, he remains very humble and is a team player. "Benni is a thorough professional and his experience is proving to be vital to the team. He is a leading example to the younger players who also want to play in Europe." The Pirates captain says McCarthy plays a key role in some of the important decisions that are made during matches. "Benni is very experienced. He is a player who has won League titles in Europe, including the Uefa Champions League. This makes his input very valuable on the field," Lekgwathi says.
Your comments on this story...
once and always...mabhakaniya lets not forget where we come from..
true my captain,
He is in a class of his own.
m sure Wits defence wer promised overtime alowenc provided thy win Telkom Cup.
If u come 2nd, u dont lose Gold but you win silver.
the silver days are gone and now its Gold waya waya.
Mr Magic, Powerball, money maker, In the 18 area, is blessing for us Bhakaniya family.
how many players hold a UEFA gold medal in AFRICA or the world, this man is amongst those players - thats how big it is.
After the game i saw Ben 10 Macarthy having some hashy words with chapman. i didnt hear what he was saying but i can tell you Ben 10 was asking Chapman why are you disrespecting orlando pirates Brand by breaking the emblem when you celebrate and chapman was very angry if the captain didnt intervene believe me you, there was going to be an ugly scene.
Jealous Down: If thats how u where raised or raising your kids, you are killing their spirit.
Just ask yourself, why there is a price for 2nd and third contenders in any competitions.
Lafosta King! Coming second is just like the one who came last - This is now narrow mindedness, no 2nd would usual get a 2nd price, silver medals and for those who are curious who did Pirates beat in the final, Wits name will always pounce.
Just learn and avoid stereo types.
The prophecy by one of our mightiest fans Mr. Goodluck has come to pass. We are not a one cup team (champions) but a 5 trophies (champions) team. Foolish hobos did not understand what the elder was saying & laughed at their peril.
Another thing champs is that I am now tired of being hated by my business partners because of Pirates hence I denounce being a Pirate because my family relies on my good relations with them. Family 1st, country 2nd & lastly le Pirates hakhona that is ruthless. I am now a fully fledged Chiefs supporter. What should my new name be?
Hobo Mgugudi?, In-my-time Mgugudi?, Brown Envelop Mgugudi? Mgugudi Gqubule-Sithole? Champ Macufe Cup-tremble Mgugudi?...
How was the vibe at Max's? I went to Florida to chill all, the pubs / resturants rocked, durban was painted in black & white with a tint of red...
Did you also get to use those powerful muscles (to teach some hobos a learson)after lifting a Telkom cup?