Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Denis Onyango expects a tough battle against Orlando Pirates when they visit Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
Having been a notable absentee for the DStv Premiership log leaders, the big Ugandan returned to action last weekend against Sakhukhune United whom they handed a 2-0 defeat.
Onyango’s number one spot has been filled by Ronwen Williams but he has managed only three appearances so far — versus Sekhukhune and TS Galaxy in the league and La Passe in the Champions League — this term.
Despite the lack of regular game time under coach Rulani Mokwena, Onyango is confident he will step up and help the club maintain its winning run.
The defending league champions are chasing their 15th league win on the bounce and their second win of the season versus the Soweto giants.
“As players, we have a mentality that has been installed in us that you always have to be ready,” he said.
“The competitiveness has to be there all the time because you never know when you are going to be given the opportunity to play.
“You must be on your toes all the time at Sundowns and that is what was done by players who came in to replace those who have been playing regularly.
“It is always important to be ready for action and contribute to the team. It doesn’t matter whether you are playing regularly. That’s what helped us because guys who have been staying at home came in and did a good job and that is the mentality we have as players.”
Onyango knows better than most that the resurgent Buccaneers are going to be a hard nut to crack in their own backyard.
“Whenever we play Pirates at Orlando Stadium it is always interesting, they will have the advantage because they are playing at home, but we will also have our crowd behind us,” added the stalwart.
“We have managed good results at Orlando Stadium in the past and I am hoping for a good performance and a good fight, though it is not going to be easy.
“For us, we just need to keep the momentum going, because we have important games coming up this month. We know it is going to be a difficult game away from home and we must give our best. Everyone is ready and fresh for the game.”
Main Image: Denis Onyango/SNL24
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