Khanye blames Orlando Pirates ‘if they don’t win PSL title’

Photo Credit - Orlando Pirates Football Club.

Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye believes Orlando Pirates must take responsibility if they don’t beat Mamelodi Sundowns to the Betway Premiership title this season.

The Buccaneers suffered a huge setback in their quest to wrestle the title from the Brazilians following a 1-0 defeat against Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.

The defeat came on the same day Sundowns registered a convincing 3-0 victory against Richards Bay to stretch their lead to 12 points, though Pirates have two matches in hand.

“It’s shocking because the coach is still chasing the league,” said Khanye on iDiski TV. “Remember before the game the league was still open. I mean in as much as I said Sundowns will win, the league was still open. Anything could happen to Sundowns I’m referring to their remaining games.

“Pirates have themselves to blame. They have disadvantaged themselves by losing today’s game. The reason I have issues with Jose Riveiro, yes the guy has done well for Orlando Pirates he won trophies, he took out the best out of players, he’s playing youngsters and Pirates looks exciting.

“But he lost crucial games. His biggest challenge this season is losing games he has no business losing.”

The defeat left Pirates in second position of the 16-team league table with 46 points while Sundowns cemented their top spot with 58 points. Pirates will return to action with a derby fixture against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday.