ORLANDO Pirates striker Lennox Bacela believes there is light at the end of the tunnel for the team.

The Buccaneers may not have won their clash with Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday, but the former Bloemfontein Celtic striker says the side's performance in the 1-1 draw was encouraging.

Bacela, who had limited opportunities in the first team under Vladimir Vermezovic, scored his first goal of the season against the defending Absa Premiership champions in midweek.

"Mentally we were ready. We were playing at home and we had to show character after going a goal down. I think people will agree that we saw the Pirates that we know.

"We are back and we are a family again... It was great to see the spirit back."

Bacela's Pirates career got off to a flyer last season, the forward scoring goals in the CAF Champions League, MTN8 and Telkom Knockout.

He finished as the team's top scorer with 13 goals, but it has been a struggle this season.

"The first goal always gives you confidence going forward and I hope I can help my team."

Bucs' caretaker coach Eric Tinkler praised Bacela, who was preferred as the target man in a 4-4-2 formation. He is likely to start again when Pirates take on Ajax Cape Town at Orlando Stadium tomorrow (8.15pm).

"Lennox worked very hard. He went out there committed and he worked exceptionally well for the team. Hopefully his legs will recover quickly,"Tinkler said.