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Mbesuma showed glimpses of the striker that scored 35 goals at Chiefs nearly half a decade ago in the match against Santos (a 3-1 loss).
He looked sharper than he has for a while, and demonstrated his old ability to roll a defender and then plough on goal-wards.
Last weekend he went one better, scoring both goals in the 2-1 win over AmaZulu.
It was a vital brace, putting an end to a five-game winless run which has seen Abafana Bes’thende slowly but surely slipping down the table.
While the likes of Njabulo Manqana and Thamsanqa Gabuza are exciting prospects, Arrows could certainly do with an in-form seasoned striker, one who is capable of getting 15 plus goals for the campaign.
“I was happy with Mbesuma's performance against AmaZulu - he showed he is a deadly finisher. He also did well to combine with his team-mates and the two goals he scored will motivate him,” said coach Zoran Filipovic.
“I was satisfied with how we played in the KZN derby, but our focus is now entirely on Orlando Pirates, it’s important that we try and keep a winning momentum going,” he added.
Now seventh, the KZN side can face up to Pirates with a renewed sense of optimism, knowing also that Bucs are under pressure to keep their title hopes alive.
The Soweto side were uninspiring in their 0-0 draw with Santos, and appear to be struggling to fire on all cylinders, their cause not helped by the constant speculation regarding Teko Modise’s future.
The Sea Robbers will also make the trip down to the coast without the inspirational Moeneeb Josephs, the Bafana Bafana keeper forced to sit out through suspension.
Clifford Ngobeni is doubtful with flu, which is also affecting Lucky Lekgwathi, Robyn Johannes, Rooi Mahamutsa and Happy Jele, but the four defenders are still likely to be available to play.
Skipper Lekgwathi says three points are crucial.
“Obviously their spirit is high after beating AmaZulu 2-1, so it’s going to be a tough game, but we cannot afford to drop any more points, we need to fight for every game so we can challenge for the league.”
Lekgwathi accepts Mbesuma could be a threat, but believes the Bucs defence is capable of handling the Zambian.
“In my time at Pirates, when Mbesuma was at Chiefs he never scored when I was playing. But he will pose a threat, we need to keep an eye on him, make sure we are tight and don’t give him space,” said the Bucs veteran.
