A former Orlando Pirates striker has dished out advice on how the Soweto giants can go about their business towards a possible league title despite the odds being heavily against them.
Second-placed Pirates trail log leaders Sundowns by 15 points, having played four fewer games.
They face relegation-haunted Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein on Saturday (17:45), with Sundowns also in action against rivals Kaizer Chiefs on the same day (15:30).
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"Pirates are currently under immense pressure because Sundowns already have the points secured, while Pirates still have to fight for theirs," admits Bruce Ramokadi, who won the CAF Champions League with Bucs back in 1995.
"However, Pirates are doing well. As long as they focus on their own game and avoid dropping points, they can stay competitive.
"In a league title race, if you can't beat the team you're competing with, at least make sure to beat the other 14 teams. Come the end of the season, Sundowns will drop points, just like they did against TS Galaxy not long ago.
"There's always a possibility of losing a match, so Pirates players must concentrate on the task at hand. Having four games in hand isn't a blessing; it brings pressure. There is little room for a loss or a draw.
"Pirates shouldn't let a single loss or draw distract them," he continued.
Ramokadi says with the season still having some way to go, the Tshwane giants are likely to drop points, which is where Jose Riveiro's troops should capitalise.
"Just like Pirates, Sundowns still have to compete in the Champions League and the Nedbank Cup. The Champions League will probably be their top priority over the league.
"The journey to close the gap starts on Saturday against the coach-less Marumo Gallants. Pirates must take each game as it comes, they shouldn't look too far ahead to avoid distractions. It's still possible for them to win the league."
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Pirates will be without Riveiro at the Free State Stadium as he will be serving a suspension.
"However, as long as he is with the team and not away, it shouldn't affect them too much. He will be there at halftime to coach them, so it won't be as bad," notes the man nicknamed 'Jam Alley' during his salad days.