The Mswenko Boys are fighting for survival in South Africa’s top flight, while the Buccaneers know that only a victory will hand them the league championship title.
Orbit currently occupy 15th place on the log and face the threat of relegation, while Pirates sit second on 66 points, two behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have already completed their fixtures.
With the stakes high at both ends of the table, Machete insisted Orbit will not simply make life easy for the Soweto giants.
“I think the premier [of the North West Province, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi] first alluded to say the stadium we’re going to has got a banana peel, the tears are gonna be flowing there, but we don’t know where the tears are gonna come from,” Machete told the media.
While Pirates are chasing silverware, Orbit are battling to avoid the drop. A defeat, combined with a victory for Magesi FC, would condemn Orbit to relegation, while even a draw could still leave them facing the relegation/promotion play-offs.
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Despite the pressure surrounding the encounter, Machete said his players are embracing the opportunity to influence where the title ends up.
“The mood is a very good mood for us as a team to be up against a big team tomorrow; to be the deciding factor,” he said.
“We hold the key whether it’s going to Mamelodi or whether it’s going to Orlando. The boys know that we are holding the keys, so if you want the keys, you know where to go – to the students. But we’re ready for tomorrow (Saturday).”