Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has revealed his desire to become the club’s all-time leading goal scorer.
Mabasa’s goals against Baroka took his tally to 12 goals in 30 appearances across all competitions this season, along with one assist. This was his second hat-trick of the campaign, following his first against Marumo Gallants in an 8-1 Betway Premiership victory.
These goals have propelled Mabasa’s total for Pirates to 44 goals in 208 matches, surpassing club legends Phumlani Mkhize and the late Lesley Manyathela, who were previously tied with him at 41 goals. He now sits second on the club’s all-time scoring list, trailing only Benedict “Tso” Vilakazi, who holds the record with 58 goals.
“Like I said, I pride myself on the chances I take and the goals that I score. Leaving a legacy at this club, which I grew up supporting from a young age, would be a great honour. It’s something I’m striving for and looking forward to achieving,” Mabasa was quoted by Sportswire.com.
The prolific forward already has a place in Pirates’ history, having won the PSL Golden Boot (Lesley Manyathela Award) last season with 16 goals in 26 matches. However, six of those goals came while he was on loan at Moroka Swallows before returning to Pirates for the second half of the campaign.
Manyathela, whom the award is named after, won the same accolade in the 2001/02 season, scoring 18 league goals and 21 in total (including all competitions) as Pirates clinched the league title.
When asked about his role model at the club, Mabasa was quick to mention Manyathela.
“Off the top of my head, it has to be Lesley Manyathela. He’s one player I wish the country could have seen more of. It’s unfortunate what happened, and may his soul rest in peace. He was one of the best strikers this club has ever had. To be mentioned in the same breath as him is an honour and a privilege,” he added.