Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi has vowed to give the club’s supporters a festive gift by winning the Carling Knockout trophy on Saturday.
The Buccaneers haven’t had much joy in the cup competition, winning the title just once when they beat Bidvest Wits 3-1 in the 2011 final.
Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side will face Marumo Gallants at the Peter Mokaba Stadium as the Moroccan looks to win his second piece of silverware since arriving at Mayfair in the off-season, having guided Pirates to a record fourth consecutive MTN8 triumph three months ago.
Sibisi said the fact that the Soweto giants are featuring in their second cup final this term is testament to the fine work done by Ouaddou, who is getting the best out of his players.
“We know this is the cup that has eluded us for quite some time now, but we are really looking forward to playing the game on Saturday,” the 30-year-old centre-back said.
“We know what we are coming up against, a very good side in Marumo Gallants, but the boys are prepared for the game.
“Whenever there are changes, there is doubt. At the start of the season, we started on a back foot, and for the boys to pick up and the coach, I think it speaks volumes to the character of the group.
“And it is something we are carrying because we knew what we were doing, and we trusted the process. I think now we are reaping the rewards for that process.
“It’s only halfway through the season, but we are going to play our second final, and it shows the work the coach has been putting in, the technical team and the players as well.
“It’s festive season now, [a] time of gifting, and this one is for them (the fans). If we can get this one, it will be a gift from us to them.”
