Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has refused to blame the pitch conditions at Loftus Stadium after his side was subjected to a 4-1 thrashing by defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday afternoon.

The result is a major setback for the Soweto giants in their quest for a first league title since the 2011/12 season. In contrast to the last two campaigns under the Spaniard, the Buccaneers have staged a real title charge this term.

However, Riveiro’s men now face the daunting task of dislodging the Brazilians at the top of the Betway Premiership table as the defeat sees them trailing Downs by nine points. Pirates will be keen to win their game in hand to narrow the gap.

While they suffered a demoralizing loss in visible poor pitch conditions that saw players from both sides frequently slip, Riveiro insists he won’t attribute the thumping to the field as it would sound like a cover-up for the outcome of the match.

“Tough beginning of the game, we couldn’t find any moment to progress in very difficult circumstances. I’m not going to talk about the field after getting four goals because it’s going to sound like [an excuse],” he said.

“I think it was a difficult game to play for both teams and Sundowns managed to find a way to get three points despite the circumstances the game was played in. It was a tough week for us, coming from the derby, Sekhukhune [United], and this game – three top games to play.

“Whatever I say about the pitch will be a big line on social media and I don’t want to give you [media] that chance to show that I’m trying to justify what happened on the field. It was the same field for the Sundowns, remember I said they managed to find a way to win the game?” 

The Bucs mentor went on to point out that Miguel Cardoso’s troops also played on the same surface, reiterating his point that the defeat is not down to the field. Although he shies away from putting the pitch under the spotlight, he acknowledges the conditions were not suitable for the game.

“But at the same time, I’m sure that Sundowns is not happy with the field. With the players that they have and the football that they want to play, it’s not an advantage for Sundowns as well,” Riveiro added.

“It’s a pity that the game was played on this field because it’s not helping anybody, not helping the game, the football, and the risk of injuries. In every single action, there’s a high risk of injury for both teams.

“Please, not for a second take this comment like I’m saying we lost because of the pitch – not even close. But the game was indeed played in very difficult conditions for Sundowns and Pirates as well.” 

The Sea Robbers will momentarily switch their focus to the Nedbank Cup where they are set to play Baroka FC at Orlando Stadium on Saturday. They will swing back into league action with a trip to Golden Arrows on Wednesday, 19 February.