Jose On Bay’s Hard-Fought Win: We Will Face Such Teams
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro praised his team’s resilience after overcoming Richards Bay in a hard-fought Betway Premiership match at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday.
He acknowledged that such challenges are to be expected throughout the long season, as his team will often find it difficult to break down opponents who defend resolutely.
Pirates faced a tough task against Bay’s goalkeeper Ian Otieno, who made several impressive saves. Despite numerous attempts, Pirates struggled to find clear-cut opportunities. Gilberto, who was given a start in the absence of Monnapule Saleng, failed to provide the spark needed, leading to frustration for the Soweto giants.
It was Kabelo Dlamini who came off the bench to deliver a stunning free-kick in the 83rd minute, securing a 1-0 victory for Pirates. This win propelled them to second place in the Betway Premiership table, just behind Mamelodi Sundowns on goal difference.
Riveiro emphasized the importance of such victories in building a winning mentality. “It is long season ahead of us and we are going to find ourselves many times in scenarios like today that we are going to fight for the goal and the goal is not coming and the opponents is defending with everything they have,” said Riveiro.
“It is good to create memories, to internalize those dynamics because it is something that you carry during the competition, and you don’t need to say because the players know that we have the talent that we have on the field and the goal can come from many different situations.”
A notable statistic for both Pirates and Sundowns is their clean sheets. Neither team has conceded a goal in the league so far, a positive sign for the clubs’ defensive solidity.
“So, I think it is good to win to continue to creating that habit of winning constantly and consistently and again not conceding one goal which is something that will always push you to be close to get the results that you are looking for,” he added.
“I think the boys today, they produced a very professional and honest performance.”
Pirates were missing key players Olisa Ndah and Saleng, who picked up knocks in their previous match against Polokwane City. However, both players are expected to be fit for the upcoming MTN8 final against Stellenbosch on Saturday.
