Relebohile Mofokeng: Orlando Pirates star savours 'special' first hat-trick

Relebohile Mofokeng relished a “special moment” after ticking one of the items on his bucket list at Orlando Pirates, following his first professional hat-trick at the club during their 6-0 thrashing of TS Galaxy.

Mofokeng was on fire against the Rockets in a Betway Premiership clash at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday. He scored the opening goal in the fifth minute, secured his brace early in the second half, and ensured he walked away with the match ball and Player of the Match award after completing his hat-trick.

Speaking to SuperSport after the game, the midfielder, who also enjoyed the more progressive No 10 role, revealed what his first professional hat-trick meant.

“It’s very special. I have been waiting for this moment,” stated Mofokeng. “I have not been scoring nor getting such moments, so I think the hat-trick helps me in my steps. 

“These are the moments that I have been playing for. I think this hat-trick will help in boosting my confidence so that I can continue pushing and going forward.”

While the day belonged to Mofokeng, the result equally mattered to the team and the rest of the players, especially with Tshepang Moremi and Kamogelo Sebelebele also getting on the scoresheet. 

With the victory, Pirates returned to the summit of the standings with 51 points, one ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand – a huge comeback after surrendering their lead at the top of the standings with the 1-1 draw with Siwelele at home last week. Mofokeng also revealed what helped him and the team to be clinical up front after struggling to score against Siwelele, despite being the dominant side.

“At training, we’ve been working hard on our finishing and composure because that was lacking in our last game,” Mofokeng revealed.

“We practised sharp, and the attacking coaches helped us. So, I think that helped us and we need to continue going forward.”