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Happy Jele agrees defence lets Orlando Pirates down

Orlando Pirates captain Happy Jele is an unhappy camper following the defence's tendency to leak like a sieve.
Orlando Pirates captain Happy Jele is an unhappy camper following the defence's tendency to leak like a sieve.
Image: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images

Keeping just five clean sheets in 23 league matches this season has left Orlando Pirates skipper Happy Jele unhappy.

Pirates may be top of the table following their 1-1 stalemate against Bloemfontein Celtic at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night, but the Sea Robbers' defensive work still leaves a lot to be desired.

"As defenders, we have to work very hard. we know that we've made some silly mistakes at the back and it's frustrating. As a team we try to rectify those mistakes. I promise that we will get it right soon," said Jele.

Pirates forced a draw against Phunya Sele Sele, thanks to Luvuyo Memela's late goal. Celtic had drawn first blood through Tshepo Rikhotso.

"We told ourselves that we could not lose the match. When you chase the game, you can score. Even though we wanted full points, we are happy with a point."

Asked about their title chances, Jele gave a diplomatic answer as it has been the case with the entire Bucs staff.

Instead of weighing in on title talk, the Sea Robbers' captain insisted that their sole focus is on their CAF Champions League penultimate group match against Zimbabwean club FC Platinum at Orlando Stadium tomorrow (9pm).

"We take it one game at a time. So far, we're concentrating on the upcoming game on Friday. It's very important for the team. then we will see,'' explained Jele.

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