Mpontshane hints at Pirates interest

ORLANDO Pirates are definitely in talks to sign Platinum Stars goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane, and that comes from the horse's mouth.

The shy keeper appeared to involuntarily let the cat out of the bag confirming Pirates' attempt to sign him.

Speaking at a media day in Rustenburg yesterday ahead of Stars' Telkom Knockout final against SuperSport United at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, Mpontshane was asked about the big clubs' interest in him.

"It shows people are taking note of the work I'm doing at Platinum," he replied. "They can see I am making a meaningful contribution."

Asked if a move to Pirates is something that could occur, Mpontshane let slip: "It might happen."

He tried to backtrack by saying: "Anything can happen. Let's leave it there. We might see this thing in the newspapers tomorrow morning."

Asked if anyone had approached him, the keeper responded: "No. They haven't spoken to me, they have spoken to my manager [agent Tim Sukazi]."

Stars have hit form at an opportune time going into their third cup final in two seasons. The defending Telkom champions' 4-2 home win against AmaZulu on Saturday ended a six-match run without a league victory. In the Cup, Stars have beaten Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs to reach the final.

After a slow start since signing in late August, Eleazar Rodgers has found his scoring form, a hat-trick against AmaZulu making it four goals in two games for the striker.

"I've found my scoring feet," he said. "Game time is a key - if you don't have a lot you can't flow and build your confidence. I'm very happy with my fitness, having played a lot.

"And I'm also getting a lot of scoring opportunities."