In celebration of Orlando Pirates 80th anniversary this
year, we have decided to compile of list of 50 greatest ever players to have
worn the black and white jersey . We know that this list will elicit a lot of
debates over the next four weeks. We start this week with the countdown from
number 50 to 41.
50: Albert “Bashin” Mahlangu, he joined the club from
Sundowns as part of a swap deal with Basil Steenkamp, which saw Donald Khuse
going the other route. Was a midfielder with a knack for goals. He could hit
from any range. Tall and skilfull and huge fan favourite, hence they christened
him ” ayashisa amateki this is not my size” after the hit song by Mercy
Phakela.
49: Innocent “Ayobayo” Mayoyo, a stylish and flamboyant
keeper, who was a true professional and very vocal. He won the 1988 Bobsave
Super Bowl cup after they beat Kaizer Chiefs. Quite a maverick but loved by the
fans.
48: Lesley ” Slow Poison” Manyathela, was the mainstay of
pirates attack in the 2002/3 League winning side under the tutelage of coach
Roy Barreto. He was unassumingly slow but a deadly finisher in the box.
Arguably one the best finishers of his generation.
47: Senzo Meyiwa, came via the clubs youth structures and
waited for his turn to blossom into One of Africa’s great keepers. A brave shot
stopper who was very agile, and he was good in the air for such a short keeper
. His career was cut short tragically when he died in a bizarre shooting
incident .
46: Steve ” Chippa” Lekoelea, was a dazzling, skillfull
midfielder with massive potential. He could score free kicks , take great
corners. Could dribble, could pass and created many goals for strikers. One on
one he was devastating. Injuries and lack of disciplined prevented him from
true Legendary status.
45: Baboon Shepherd Shabangu was a great midfielder who
played in the 60’s . A tough tackling midfielder who could create goals as
well. Was a fan favourite , he would have fans at the Indian Sports ground
cheering in unison ” Baboon Shepherd”. He is the father of cabinet minister
Susan Shabangu.
44: Basil ” Kapse Dans” Steenkamp, he turned out to be a
great signing, joining the club as part of a swap deal. He was quick and
clever.a prolific goalscorer for the club. Was reliable and dependable .
43: Alfred ” Shakes” Gwabeni, a midfielder with a big
engine. Exceedingly talented. Was always around the ball, created and scored
goals.
42: Lucky Lekgwathi, committed captain , always wearing his
heart on his sleeves . He led the team to a double treble. Served the club with
distinction for 14 years to take his place amongst the club’ s greats.
41: Jerry ” legs of thunder” Sikhosana, fondly remembered
for the goal he scored in Abidjan against Asec Mimosa that delivered the
African Cup. He was aggressive, quick and could thump the ball with incredible
power. Clever player and very street wise, in the mound of Barcelona striker
Luis Suarez.
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