The new Premier Soccer League season has barely begun, but Orlando Pirates already find themselves under pressure after a disappointing 1-0 home loss to Sekhukhune United.
Despite bringing in 12 new signings over the pre-season, the Buccaneers struggled to find the back of the net and their attacking game raised some eyebrows — especially around winger Oswin Appollis.
Junior Khanye Points Out Appollis’ Limitations
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye didn’t hold back in his critique of Appollis following the match.
The Bafana Bafana winger, who joined Pirates in July from Polokwane City, had a promising start when he scored against his former club in the MTN8 tournament.
But Khanye feels Appollis showed some clear weaknesses against Sekhukhune.
Khanye explained that Appollis seems too one-dimensional and limited in his attacking role. “I was surprised to see a winger who can’t play on the left side,” Khanye said.
“Whether you’re left-footed or right-footed, as an attacker you should be able to operate on both flanks.
He’s too direct and doesn’t switch things up.”
Can Appollis Adapt and Thrive at Pirates?
With that kind of feedback, the question now is whether Appollis can adapt his style to fit into Pirates’ game plan and contribute more effectively.
Khanye believes the player needs to develop versatility, making himself useful on both wings rather than sticking strictly to the left.
Orlando Pirates will look to bounce back when they face Marumo Gallants next in the league.
Then their attention will turn back to the MTN8, where they will host fierce rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in the first leg of the semi-finals.
Striking a Balance Between Appollis and Mofokeng
Another talking point around Pirates’ attack is the dynamic between Oswin Appollis and Relebohile Mofokeng.
Both players tend to prefer the left wing, which raises the question of how well they can play together without stepping on each other’s toes.
Is it possible for these two to complement each other on the pitch, or will their similar styles limit Pirates’ attacking options? That’s a debate that fans and analysts alike are eager to see unfold.
