Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has revealed that his decision to substitute Thabiso Sesane during their 1-0 victory over Richards Bay at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday was primarily driven by concerns about potential numerical disadvantage and the chance of missing the MTN8 final.

Sesane was cautioned in the 10th minute for a foul on Justice Figareido, leaving Riveiro wary of the defender receiving a second yellow card and resulting in a red card. With Pirates already missing Olisa Ndah and Monnapule Saleng due to injuries, the coach opted to be cautious and avoid playing with ten men.

Riveiro praised Sesane’s performance but emphasized the strategic decision to bring on Nkosinathi Sibisi. He explained that the substitution was not a reflection of Sesane’s performance but rather a precautionary measure to protect Pirates’ numerical advantage.

“He was doing well, I think,” Riveiro said of Sesane. “It was nothing about his sub related to his performance, but all of them – Sesane, Innocent Maela, they were exceptionally good because of the game that Richards Bay gave us. Deano van Rooyen and Deon Hotto – they were really good in the aerial duels.

“But the risk of the ball at the back (for Sesane) and running (back) with the striker, (we took him off) because we don’t want to be playing with 10 players.

“So, I was a little bit conservative having a player like Sibisi on the bench ready to go. So, I think it’s not a bad idea.”

The Soweto Giants won the Bay game via the stupendous free kick by Kabelo Dlamini, who climbed off the bench to curl it past Ian Otieno and seal the win for Pirates in the 82nd minute.

With the victory, Pirates moved up to second in the Betway Premiership table on nine points after three matches, trailing Mamelodi Sundowns on goal difference.