Pirates Focus On Key Preparation Phase To Defend Betway Premiership Lead
Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has emphasised the significance of the club’s preparation phase as the team looks to consolidate its position at the top of the Betway Premiership table in the second half of the season.
The Soweto giants are currently in Rustenburg fine-tuning their preparations ahead of the league’s restart, with their first fixture of the second round scheduled against Sekhukhune United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday.
Pirates are eager to maintain their momentum after an impressive first half of the campaign.
Pirates have so far enjoyed a successful season, standing out as the only team to have lifted silverware. They claimed both the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup, underlining their consistency and competitiveness across competitions.
Their strong form has also been reflected in the league, where they currently sit at the summit with 28 points from 12 matches.
The Buccaneers hold a two-point advantage over defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played one game more, making the upcoming fixtures crucial in shaping the title race.
Ncikazi highlighted that the current phase is particularly important as the squad works towards full fitness and cohesion. “It’s an important phase for our team, especially with players coming back from injuries and others returning from international duty with Bafana Bafana after the Africa Cup of Nations,” said Ncikazi.
He added that the technical team is using the break to recalibrate ahead of the demanding second half of the season. “We need to realign the team, re-strategise and make sure we are stronger when the season restarts. This phase is highly important for us,” he explained.
In addition to their league ambitions, Pirates will also turn their attention to the Nedbank Cup after being drawn against Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila in the round of 32.
The draw, conducted on Thursday evening, presents the Buccaneers with another opportunity to challenge for silverware as they continue their pursuit of domestic success this season.
