Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro defended his players’ commitment after a disappointing 1-0 defeat to relegation-battling Richards Bay at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

Sanele Barns’ first-half goal proved the difference for Bay, who grabbed a crucial lifeline in their fight for survival. The loss was a significant setback for Pirates, who could have climbed to second place with a win after Stellenbosch fell to a 1-0 defeat earlier in the day to Moroka Swallows.

This defeat marked Pirates’ first loss at Orlando Stadium since December and their first time failing to score against Richards Bay this season, following a goalless draw in the first round back in November. Despite the setback, Pirates remain third in the table with 49 points after 28 matches, just one point behind Stellenbosch.

“There were many situations I think,” Riveiro said after the game on SuperSport TV, referencing a key save made by Bay goalkeeper Salim Magoola on Patrick Maswanganyi’s chance.

“It was a game of small margins, and these situations often dictate results. However, I have nothing to complain about from my players. They gave their all, which is their obligation. They fought until the final whistle, everyone played with heart. Today, luck wasn’t on our side, but we move forward.”

This loss snapped Pirates’ eight-game winning streak across all competitions and their seven-match winning run in the league. Their remaining fixtures include an away clash against TS Galaxy on 18th of May and a final home game against SuperSport United on 25th May.

While their league campaign will draw to a close after those two matches, Pirates still have a chance of adding the silverware. They’ll face Mamelodi Sundowns in a sold-out Nedbank Cup final at Mbombela Stadium on 1 June.

Picture courtesy of Richards Bay