Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Teko Modise, the influential Orlando Pirates playmaker, says it was heart-breaking for him to watch his teammates from the stands against Jomo Cosmos last weekend.

The hard-working Modise did not feature in that clash, which ended in a goalless draw, as he was serving a one-match suspension.

"It was not nice to watch the guys play from the stands. That was the first time I missed a game since I joined Pirates," said Modise at training yesterday.

The player, also known as "Ace" to teammates and close friends, is back in action for the game against SuperSport United at Johannesburg Stadium on Saturday (8pm).

"It was tough against Cosmos, but the guys gave a good account of themselves.

"The problem is that we missed many scoring opportunities," said Modise.

"It's great to be back in action.

"The game against SuperSport United will be an interesting one because they are leading the log table.

"We cannot afford to drop points anymore. We also need to start scoring goals because anything can still happen with regard to the top spot.

"Few people gave AmaZulu a chance against SuperSport United. They went on to win the game, which shows there are no guarantees.

"I strongly believe we still have a chance," added Modise.

"An added advantage is that we still have to play against SuperSport and [second placed] Ajax Cape Town."

Pirates also welcome back left-back Lucas Thwala, who was sent off in their game against league title dark horses Santos.

Ironically, Modise scored the only goal for Bucs when Matsatsantsa a Pitori hammered them 3-1 in the first round on November 14.

Full weekend fixtures:

Tomorrow

Athlone: Santos v Jomo Cosmos (8pm).

Saturday

King Zwelithini: Golden Arrows v Thanda Royal Zulu (3pm);

Johannesburg: Pirates v SuperSport United (8pm).

Sunday

Princess Magogo: AmaZulu v Platinum Stars (3pm); Seisa Ramabodu: Bloemfontein Celtic v Black Leopards (3pm);

Loftus: Mamelodi Sundowns v Kaizer Chiefs (3pm); Germiston: Moroka Swallows v Ajax (5pm).