Makola wary of revitalised Ea Lla Koto

Cape Town - Orlando Pirates midfielder Mpho Makola makes no bones about Bucs' desire to fight for points, but has stressed caution ahead of their clash with an improved Free State Stars on Saturday.

The Soweto giants take on the revitalised Ea Lla Koto in a crucial Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off at 6pm. 

While Bucs have gone five matches without a victory, including a 6-1 thumping by SuperSport United that led to Muhsin Ertugral stepping down, the Bethlehem side are yet to clinch a first win of the season in eight outings to date. 

And while Pirates come into this game on the back of a cup win over Highlands Park, Stars have not lost in their last five games, and claimed a penalty shootout win over Kaizer Chiefs in their last match.

Ahead of the tie, the Bafana Bafana midfielder told Vodacom Soccer: "Going to Saturday's game we know what to expect from Free State [Stars] because they have proved to be an improved side lately. 

"And there is no doubt they will come to Saturday's clash with their confidence on a high, following their Telkom Knockout victory over Chiefs. 

"But unfortunately they will find us in a mean mood because we are fired up to go all out for vital points in this game to beat our inconsistent league run."

"We need a win at all costs in this upcoming clash. Five matches without victory is a bitter pill to swallow for the Bucs' faithful," added Makola. 

Pirates and Stars may have endured an inconsistent league run so far this season, but both sides' knock-out successes has seen them reach the Telkom Knockout semi-final stage.

The Buccaneers take on SuperSport in a much anticipated encounter next Saturday, 26 November, as Ea Lla Koto take on Cape Town City.