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Memela optimistic Bucs can overcome last TKO hurdle

Cape Town - Orlando Pirates winger Luvuyo Memela is optimistic that Buccaneers have what it takes to go all the way to reach the cup final of the Telkom Knockout Cup.

Memela produced an eye-catching display in Bucs' 2- 1 victory over Highlands Park in Saturday's Telkom Knockout quarter-final clash at Orlando Stadium.

The 28-year-old winger was a real threat down the right flank for Pirates, and it was his free-kick that led to Pirates' opening goal, which was an own goal by Highlands' Augustine Mbara.

"I'm happy that I had one of the good performances tonight and am fired up to do even better whenever I'm given a chance to be in the team's starting XI," he told Vodacom Soccer.

"You know, it's not always easy to make Bucs' starting XI given the quality the team have in every position, and when one is given the nod they have to perform at their best.

"Though the first goal resulted into an own goal, but I'm happy that it was my free-kick that led to that goal."

Bucs, who looked a better side after Tuesday's heavy 6-1 drubbing by SuperSport United in a league clash, played their first match under the tutelage of interim coach Augusto Palacios.

The Paarl-born winger is optimistic that his side have what it takes to reach the finals.

"Having already reached the semi-finals, we now have one last hurdle to jump to reach the cup final," he added.

"Reaching the cup final and winning the trophy would be a best Christmas present to Bucs' supporters, who have been behind us through thick and thin even after our Tuesday's heavy defeat against Supersport in a League game."

Pirates' die-hards came in numbers to rally behind The Soweto giants, just four days after Tuesday's heavy defeat.

The Sea Robbers will have the opportunity to avenge the embarrassing defeat after being drawn against United for the semi-finals.

Cape Town City will play Free State Stars in the next round of the Cup competition.

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