Orlando Pirates defender Lebone Seema credits hard work for rise

Lebone Seema arrived at Orlando Pirates under the radar and with no high expectations, which is why he took it upon himself to work hard from the outset and make his presence felt at the club.

Seema joined Pirates from TS Galaxy in the winter as part of nine new signings made by the club. However, there was little said about him compared to some of the more high-profile arrivals.

After being handed his full debut by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou in the 2-1 loss to Marumo Gallants away from home, Seema grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

He became a mainstay in defence alongside central partner Mbekezeli Mbokazi, thanks to his timely tackles, impeccable reading of the game, and accurate short and long-range passing.

The 23-year-old is grateful for the warm reception he received at the club and has never looked out of place since day one. However, he acknowledges that he would not have become a regular without his strong work ethic.

“Pressure will always be there whether we play well or not,” Seema acknowledged. “I just have to continue working hard and improving myself. I want to remain focused and play well.

“I wasn’t surprised that I became a regular. When I came here, I told myself that I was going to work hard, focus on myself, and stay away from distractions. I think that has helped me.”

Seema will need extra support to remain alert in defence during the final stretch of the season following the departure of his partner-in-crime, Mbokazi, who joined the MLS side Chicago Fire this month.

Seema was pleased for Mbokazi, insisting that he deserved the overseas move given his qualities both as a player and as a person.

“Firstly, I want to say good luck to him,” Seema said. “For me, it’s motivation to keep working hard and focus on my game.

“He is a very good person who just wants to work hard. That’s what made him stand out this season.”

While Mbokazi is a special talent, Ouaddou is expected to quickly find his replacement, especially following the signing of Mpho Chabatsane from Marumo Gallants this summer.

Having been a defender in his playing days, Ouaddou has brought a strong defensive influence to the team. Pirates currently boast the best defensive record in the league, having conceded only five goals in 13 matches.

Seema also credited the senior players for guiding new signings and youngsters, which has helped the team remain solid despite frequent changes in defence due to injuries or rotation.

“We have been doing the same thing from the start of the season, which is defending together, staying compact and putting in the work,” Seema explained.

“He (Ouaddou, who played for clubs such as Fulham) does add a bit of pressure here and there, which is why he places a strong focus on defence.”

With legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson having famously said, 'Defenders win games',  Ouaddou appears to be heading in the right direction in the quest to win the league.

“I think that’s one of the targets we set for ourselves when the season started,” Seema stated. “We want to win every game and every cup we compete in this season.”

Pirates are also fired up for their clash against Magesi on Saturday (6pm kick-off) as they aim to open the Amstel Arena in style and silence any criticism following the goalless draw with Sekhukhune United a week ago.