Mandla Ncikazi expects Orlando Pirates to collect maximum points this evening against Chippa United as they 'prepared well' for this game

Mandla Ncikazi cites the groundwork and effort they put in getting ready for the side from Gqeberha is enough to warrant them maximum points.

“The expectations are always similar, Pirates must win I think we have prepared well, we ready to perform, we ready to battle for the three points,” he told Pirates media.

“That is the important part for us, and I am sure with everything that has happened, the rest from the team a well-deserved rest while we were preparing.

“I think we are ready to gain three points.”

The three points on offer this evening are crucial on both ends of the Betway Premiership stable as Pirates are looking to close gap on table toppers, Mamelodi Sundowns while Chippa plan to move off the foot of the table.

A win for Pirates will put them on 25 points – equal to Sundowns – with a game in hand.

But a win for Chippa would mean the Chilli Boys will away from the bottom of the standings as 10 points will allow them go above 14th placed Stellenbosch FC who are on nine.

Vusumuzi Vilakazi, Chippa coach, is facing his mentor as he worked with Ncikazi before at Golden Arrows.

The former striker replaced Luc Eymael as Chippa coach in an effort to see the Eastern Cape-based side change their fortunes.

The match at Orlando Stadium starts at 7.30pm.