‘It Was Misinterpreted’: Durban City Captain Sets Record Straight On Viral Pirates Comment

Durban City defender Siphamandla Ncanana has clarified that he meant no disrespect towards Orlando Pirates when he made the now-viral remark that “Pirates is just a name”.

The City captain faced criticism on social media after commenting on his side’s goalless draw against the Buccaneers, a match in which he was named Man of the Match, in the penultimane game of last season.

Pirates was closing in on the league title in that match, where they needed to win to be crowned champions. Afterwards, Ncanana, who made history for Durban City to become the captain to lift the club’s maiden trophy – the Nedbank Cup, made those remarks that Pirates is just name.

Fans did not take that kindly, saying Pirates will take revenge when these teams meet again on Saturday in their MTN8 opener at Orlando Amstel Arena. Pirates supporters are viewing the encounter as an opportunity to this matter to bed.

However, Ncanana explained that his statement was taken out of context and insisted that he fully acknowledges the club’s stature in South African football.

“What I can say is maybe they misinterpreted my statement,” Ncanana said during the MTN8 earlier this week.

“It was not that I was disrespectful or have something against Pirates, no. We all know Pirates are a big team in South Africa, in South African football.

“What I can say is that once the referee blows the whistle, it is 11 v 11. It’s not about Pirates. I was not disrespectful; I was just saying we need to be strong.”