Lack of quality players a problem: Da Gama

Da Gama could not hide his anger, after losing pride, dignity and the match

Pirates coach, Owen da Gama, who could not hide his anger after losing pride, dignity and most importantly - the all important three points against arch rivals Kaizer Chiefs in the Soweto derby on Saturday said a lack of quality players is the cause of the current log position for the his team.

In another PSL match played yesterday Petrus Mahlatsi's brace kept Bloemfontein Celtics hopes of qualifying for the top eight alive when they beat Bidvest Wits 2-0 in a Absa Premiership match at Seisa Ramabodu Stadium yesterday.

Thanda Royal Zulu hold Santos FC to a 1-1 draw denting the people’s team chance of winning the league. This week will be a decisive week in the local Absa Premiership, with two rounds of matches left, league honours are at stake and the relegation battle looms for others.

All or nothing for Cosmos and Leopards
In the match of the week Jomo Cosmos go head to head against Black Leopards. It is all or nothing for both teams as the loser will almost definitely be relegated to the Mvela League. Cosmos are currently holding up the log in the 16th spot while Leopards are just one point ahead of them on 23 points. SuperSport United will be looking to consolidate their place at the top of the log when they take on Golden Arrows.

Thanda Royal Zulu need just four points from their remaining two matches to survive the drop, they play Wits in Durban. AmaZulu host Moroka Swallow while Free State Stars host Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs entertain Bloemfontein Celtic. All these matches will be played this Wednesday.

On Thursday Platinum Stars will be looking for maximum points against Mamelodi Sundowns. A win will consolidate their place in the top eight in the premiership. Ajax and Santos go head to head in the Cape Town derby. For Ajax it is a must win if they want to stay in contention for league honours for the year 2008. - Additional reporting by Sapa