Supporters’ love for the Pirates
Orlando Pirates FC supporters painted Mabokelele in Moletjie red, black and white on Sunday when they officially launched the Moletjie Orlando Pirates Supporters' Branch.
POLOKWANE – Orlando Pirates FC supporters painted Mabokelele in Moletjie red, black and white on Sunday when they officially launched the Moletjie Orlando Pirates Supporters’ Branch.
More than 500 football fans each wore the team’s jersey to the launch, which was honoured by Orlando Pirates player, Tlou “Gautrain” Segolela, who hails from Moletjie.
Paul Manamela, the branch secretary, said Orlando Pirates, the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) and the African National Congress (ANC) were big brands in South Africa.
“The journey to great soccer excitement has started and I would like to thank everyone who assisted us with the launch and made it a success. The branch was established about 10 years ago, but we were waiting for the right time to launch it officially,” said Manamela.
He said Pirates supporters should stand together like those of Bloemfontein Celtics and cheer the team no matter what the results were.
Mamelodi Sundowns supporter, Andy Ratsoma attended the gathering to congratulate Moletjie Pirates fans.
He said supporters should establish branches so that they can go out in great numbers to support their teams.
“We launched our branch in 2001 and I always encouraged other supporters to do the same,” said Ratsoma.
Segolela said he was delighted to see his community taking football seriously he wished to see the Moletjie Orlando Pirates Supporters Branch banner lifted high at all the stadiums in the country.
“The branch should travel with the team to show they are really behind them. Seeing the Moletjie Orlando Pirates Supporters Branch banner will also give me courage when I’m on the pitch,” said Segolela.
Reginald Segwai, Orlando Pirates head office representative, said the launch was a success and well attended.
