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Cape Town - Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Siyabonga Mpontshane is well aware of the challenge he faces in fighting for the team's number one jersey.
The 31-year-old KwaZulu-Natal-born shot-stopper has been struggling for a regular place at Bucs after joining from Platinum Stars with a big reputation in January 2015.
Mpontshane is in competition with Brighton Mhlongo while Jackson Mabokgwane is currently the club's third choice stopper.
In recent weeks though he has made four starts in goal, with the backing of new coach Kjell Jonevret, and could well retain the number one jersey when the Buccaneers lock horns with Bloemfontein Celtic.
Pirates play a crucial Nedbank Cup quarter-final encounter on Saturday night at Orlando Stadium, with kick-off at 20:30.
Ahead of the game, Mpontshane exclusively told Vodacom Soccer: "Look, there is always tough competition amongst goalkeepers especially in a team like Pirates, but every player in the current squad has the same chance to prove themselves under coach Kjell.
"He gives everyone a chance and believes in committed players. So, that means everyone who is given a chance must grab it with both hands.
"It is every goalkeeper's desire to be a regular in the team's starting line-up, and I'm happy that I have been in the team for consecutive games.
"That has come as a motivational factor for me to double my efforts, because I know that as the team's second choice keeper I still have a challenge to work hard until I reach a point where I can finally be considered as a first choice."
He added: "But there is healthy competition amongst us as Bucs' keepers, and whoever is in the starting line-up gets a support from others.
"I will never rest on my laurels, but will keep on working hard and help the team to finish the season on a respectable position on the standings and challenge for Nedbank Cup title."
