A former Orlando Pirates star, who played at the 2010 World Cup, has urged the current group of players to avoid the embarrassment of being overshadowed by Mamelodi Sundowns.
Pirates have added several strong players to their squad, and Lucas Thwala believes they are the only team capable of dethroning Sundowns as league champions.
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"I think the new Pirates coach, although he is still getting settled in, understands the challenge ahead. Ultimately, everything relies on the players," says Thwala.
"As a player, you shouldn't require motivation to perform well at Pirates. Playing for Pirates is an opportunity to fulfill your childhood dreams.
"This coming season, we expect results week in and week out. The players must deliver, with no excuses.
"I want them to dethrone this luxury cruise ship from Pretoria. Pirates must step up to challenge Sundowns. They are taking advantage of us.
"Winning trophies should be a standard expectation for a team like Pirates. We should never finish a season empty-handed,” he adds.
The former full-back says the goal is clear, to dethrone the Tshwane giants.
"These new players need to understand that they are not here just to avoid relegation; they are here to compete for honours.
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"I won the league with Pirates during the treble-winning days, and nothing compares to that achievement for a club like Pirates. It fills you with pride.
"I genuinely believe we have enough depth to finally end Sundowns' dominance in the local league."
The Buccaneers are scheduled to begin the league season with a fixture against Sekhukhune United on August 9.
Image: Orlando Pirates
