Ncikazi’s Title Ultimatum: Pirates Cannot Afford To ‘Play With Emotions’
Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has stressed the importance of maintaining focus ahead of their crucial Betway Premiership clash against Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.
This will be the final game and last opportunity for the Soweto giants to challenge for the league title after last weekend’s setback against Durban City.
The Buccaneers are currently second on the table with 66 points from 29 matches. A victory would see them move one point clear of Mamelodi Sundowns, who have already completed all 30 of their matches, and claim the league title for the first time in 14 years.
Standing in their way is a relegation-threatened Orbit College side, equally desperate for points as they fight to retain their top-flight status.
Ncikazi acknowledged the magnitude of the encounter, insisting that Pirates must remain fully focused against a team battling for survival and with plenty to play for.
“We cannot ignore the emotions of the game and what is at stake,” said Ncikazi.
“But it is still important to get our facts right and deliver the correct message to the players — that we have a game to play. It will be 11 players on the field against a team fighting for their lives, and we also need the points.”
Ncikazi added that if Pirates execute their game plan properly, they will achieve the desired result.
“Firstly, we planned to play the match the Pirates way — dominate the game, score goals and create chances. If we do what we have prepared to do, I am very positive that we will get the result,” Ncikazi added.
