Share

I have nothing against Pirates supporters - Gabuza

Cape Town - Orlando Pirates striker Thamsanqa Gabuza says he has no point to prove to supporters, but admits he will do his utmost to make big impact in Bucs' strikeforce in the 2016/17 season.

Gabuza came under fire from Bucs supporters last season for missing goalscoring chances. The striker's frustration subsequently prompted him to perform an inciteful gesture to the team's fans after scoring against Free State Stars in the last season's Nedbank Cup semi-final clash. But the Ladysmith-born forward later apologised to Bucs' faithful following the incident.

"I have nothing against Pirates supporters, and they have nothing against me too. The proof of that is the fact they voted in the Carling Cup, and I was in the starting line-up in a Soweto Derby against Chiefs.

"That's a clear indication that Bucs supporters still have faith in me. So, I have no point to prove to anyone next season, but to do my utmost to make a big impact in team's attack and help my team challenge for titles," Gabuza told Vodacom Soccer.

The 28-year-old strongly-built marksman has also featured as a substitute in Bucs' team in two recent pre-season tournaments, the Dr Hage Geingob Cup and Bokone Bophirima Maize Cup.

With newly-appointed coach Muhsin Ertugral at the helm, and the addition of strikers Thabiso Kutumela and Bernard Morrison in the off-season, Gabuza admits the competition for starting berth will be tougher than ever.

"When I joined Pirates I knew very well what to expect in a team of Pirates' calibre, where competition for a starting line-up is the order of the day. So, ya, I know the competition will be tight for a starting line-up with new strikers having been signed.

"But I'm ready to face a challenge and fight my way into the team's starting XI, come the first match of the PSL season next week," enthused Gabuza, who scored three goals in 16 starts and four substitute appearances in all competitions last term.

Bucs will host Golden Arrows in their 2016/17 Absa Premiership opener on Wednesday at Orlando Stadium, with the kick-off set for 19:30.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2251 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE