Ouaddou Admits Fine Margins In PSL Title Race
Orlando Pirates coach Abdelsam Ouaddou admits the margins for error are slim after his side retained top spot in the Betway Premiership with a dramatic late victory over Polokwane City.
Patrick Maswanganyi struck in the 90th minute to hand Pirates a 2-1 win at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday.
The match had looked destined for a draw after Bonginkosi Dlamini cancelled out Relebohile Mofokeng’s earlier goal with four minutes remaining. Dlamini reacted quickest to Puleng Marema’s header inside the box, beating Sipho Chaine with a first-time finish and seemingly costing Pirates valuable points in the title race.
However, Maswanganyi, who had earlier missed a clear chance, redeemed himself in stoppage time. He capitalised on Deon Hotto’s cross and tapped into an empty net after Lindokuhle Mathebula was caught off his line.
Pirates and Sundowns Level on Points
The victory keeps Pirates at the summit with 44 points from 19 matches — level with Mamelodi Sundowns, who defeated Lamontville Golden Arrows at Loftus Versfeld on the same night. Sundowns remain second due to an inferior goal difference.
Ouaddou’s men knew dropping points was not an option, especially with Sundowns applying pressure and Pirates coming into the clash full of confidence after their 3-0 Soweto Derby triumph over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium last Saturday.
Ouaddou: “The PSL Is a Marathon”
Reflecting on the narrow win, Ouaddou emphasised the competitiveness of the league and the importance of maintaining consistency.
“You know the PSL is a strong league, especially this season,” said Ouaddou.
“We see that it is very tight, and it’s a marathon — it’s a race. In a marathon, you cannot drop your rhythm in terms of performance and winning.
“So we need to give our best in every game to win. At the end, we will see. But again, I have to thank my boys for the character they showed today.
“It’s not easy to come and play here. Let’s focus on the next game.”
With the Betway Premiership title race intensifying, Pirates know any slip-up could prove costly as the battle with Sundowns heads into the decisive stages of the season.
