“Playing a big club provides its own motivation for the players and we are looking to finish the league season on a high,” added Da Gama.

At present, not much separates the two sides on the league table. In fact only one place and two points are the difference between the two and Da Gama is fully aware of that: “If we beat Pirates we will go above them and that is our immediate goal at the moment.”

Celtic, at the moment, are in sixth place on 41 points, while Pirates are just above them in fifth place on 43 points. The side from Bloemfontein has also been in fine form of late, going unbeaten in their last six league matches.

Still, the Phunya Sele Sele coach understands that it will not be an easy game against the Buccaneers. “Pirates are a very dangerous side and on their day, if they get it right, they have shown they can beat anyone. They also have one of the best defensive outfits in the league.”

Da Gama takes some comfort in the fact that his side is playing at home: “We will have the advantage of home ground and that always makes a difference.”

“It is important we get a win over Pirates this weekend and that will give us the edge when we face them in the Telkom Knockout.” concluded Da Gama.