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Keeper Mpontshane in line for Bucs debut

SIYABONGA Mpontshane is set to make his Orlando Pirates debut as they begin the defence of their Nedbank Cup title tomorrow.

Caretaker coach Eric Tinkler hinted that he would give the goalkeeper a starting berth against ABC Motsepe League club Tornado FC in the last-32 clash at Orlando Stadium tomorrow (7.30pm).

Mpontshane joined from Platinum Stars in the final week of the January transfer window but has watched Bucs' last two matches from the bench while Brighton Mhlongo was preferred.

"Now that Brighton has claimed the number one jersey after being a third-choice goalkeeper, it would be silly of me to put him aside.

" I believe he will be a great goalkeeper. But at the same time Mpontshane is here and, who knows, maybe he will play the next game or the game after that," Tinkler said.

"We are involved in three competitions and players will get an opportunity to play. What's important is that when you get the opportunity, you should prove yourself.

"[Lehlohonolo] Majoro won't be available [he is suspended], so obviously there will be a change up front," he added.

Tinkler was caretaker coach when Pirates were given a scare by Thanda Royal Zulu in the round of 32 last season and has warned his players not to underestimate Tornado, who are coached by former Pirates striker Jerry Sikhosana.

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