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Lekgwathi has faith in Bucs

Johannesburg - Orlando Pirates skipper Lucky Lekgwathi is adamant that his side can put their Soweto derby heartache behind them and reach the Telkom Knockout final.

Bucs face Maritzburg United on Sunday afternoon as they look to add more silverware to their trophy cabinet after winning the MTN8 earlier in the campaign.

Lekgwathi revealed that his team-mates have been working extremely hard in training and are ready for the challenge of the Kwa-Zulu Natal outfit.

The 34-year-old said in his column on the club's official website: 'Despite our disappointment over last weekend, I am very proud of my team-mates because we have put the loss behind us and fully focused on the job at hand, which is the game against Maritzburg United in the Telkom Knockout semi final on Sunday.

'This is a very positive sign because it shows that we are determined to bounce back to our winning ways and what a better way to do that than in a cup semi final game which will take us to our second major cup final in as many months.

'Having said that, I must acknowledge Maritzburg United's current form as they are unbeaten in at least five league and cup matches and this includes victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the quarter-finals of this competition, and that's why it would be a big mistake to undermine them. But, as I always say, there are no more small teams in the league and my teammates are fully aware of this so we expect a very tough match.

'MaBhakaniya, I am sure you are aware that I won't be taking part in this match after picking up a third yellow card against Chiefs on Saturday. Of course, it would have been nice to return to Chatsworth Stadium as I have fond memories of the place after scoring the winner against Golden Arrows in the first round of this competition this year. But it's okay, that's life.

'The other player who is also ruled out for this match is Happy Jele due to suspension following his third booking at the weekend. Nonetheless, you have nothing to worry about because we have enough depth in the squad, hence I have no doubt whoever gets a chance to play will deliver because all the guys are looking forward to this match.'

Should Pirates reach the final, they could have a chance to avenge their Soweto derby defeat as Kaizer Chiefs are participating in the other semi-final against Santos in Polokwane on Saturday night.

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