The journey to the Soweto derby proved challenging for three dedicated supporters of the Orlando Pirates team. Dumisani Mgabi reported in a video clip, while stuck in a long traffic jam, that he, Sakhele Mtethwa, and Bafana Mtendjwa were delayed for over an hour on the way to the iconic match scheduled for Saturday at the FNB Stadium.
Despite the difficult route to Johannesburg via Piet Retief on a hot Friday, the three ardent fans did not lose enthusiasm. They not only enjoyed the nine-hour journey but also made several pleasant stops, admiring the scenic views of the Mpumalanga province.
The Cost of Devotion
The trip for this trio cost them approximately 2700 rand per one-way journey to their destination. Furthermore, they planned to spend 2400 rand each on accommodation at the Ecomotel in Park Station for three nights. They budgeted no less than 1500 rand for food over the weekend.
Mgabi, affectionately known as '3935', told IOL Sport that they have been following Pirates since the times of Brandon Silent and Helman Mkhalele. He emphasized that they travel everywhere to support the team, and that the club does not provide them with money; they do it out of love for the symbolism, entertainment, and because Pirates brings them joy.
Traveling Across Borders and Provinces
Mtethwa, who owns the car they used, lives in Richards Bay and was supposed to pick up Mgabi and Mtendjwa in Mutubatuba before they headed to Johannesburg. Since these two locations are more than 50 kilometers apart, this adds another leg to the journey. However, as Mgabi noted, it is all worth it.
Mgabi recounted that Mtethwa travels a great distance to pick them up. After that, they fill up a full tank of petrol and set off. He added that they do this out of love for Pirates and want their children to know that their fathers supported Pirates. They have traveled across the country and beyond, including Botswana, to support the team.
Daily Work Funds the Passion
Supporting Pirates both domestically and continentally has become a routine for these three fans. They are grateful for their work and for the support and understanding they receive at home. Mgabi explained that he is involved in buying and selling cars, Mtendjwa works as an electrician, and Mtethwa earns in Mbonambi by selling blocks and river sand. It is thanks to this that they can travel across the country. He also noted that even their partners know that they are fanatic Pirates supporters and understand it.
Loyalty Through Wins and Losses
These fans are not naive and do not expect the team to win every match. Earlier this month, they met the team before the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, where they sang and were near the players, so they were naturally disappointed by the 2-0 loss. Nevertheless, they understand the nature of the game, so they are satisfied with the team's efforts in all trials and difficulties.
Mgabi stated that regardless of whether they win, draw, or lose, they will always be behind the team. Even when Pirates loses, they always come to dance with them on the center line. They realize that the result can be anything. He confidently stated that in the last three seasons, no team has played more attractive and better football than Orlando Pirates. Even in defeats, they are happy because the team plays beautiful local football. He added that even if you are worried about your wife at home, you forget about it when you are at the stadium watching the game.
Perhaps they have covered hundreds of kilometers, spent thousands of rand, and endured frustrating traffic jams, but for Mgabi, Mtethwa, and Mtendjwa, supporting Pirates remains a journey worth taking.
