Orlando Pirates’ winning performance against Sekhukhune United in the DStv Premiership on Tuesday was no different from the way they had played in their previous five games, only this time they found the back of the net, claimed coach Jose Riveiro.
Thabiso Monyane’s 73rd-minute goal ensured a 1-0 home win at the Orlando Stadium for the Buccaneers as they won for only the third time in the league this season.
It came after the disappointment of last Saturday’s quarterfinal exit from the Carling Knockout at the hands of struggling Richards Bay and was only their second win in seven games in all competitions.
“It was much the same game we played in the last five occasions, under control with all the possession, with the opponent denying the spaces behind the last line, grouping in front of the box, and always with the risk of being caught on the transition,” said Riveiro.
“I think we did it alright, even though Sekhukhune had one dangerous transition in the first half. But we didn’t run back so much as we did in the last game we played here against Polokwane City.
“This time it was more under control. I think the first half was really good. We fully controlled the chances, did alright in set pieces as well but we were still missing that early goal that can make the game much more easy for us,” added the coach.
Riveiro said the goalless scoreline at halftime was risky for his side, especially as it was their sixth match in 18 days and they risked tiring in the second period and being caught out.
“So what happened in the second half was normal that the game was a bit broken. There was a moment in the second half that we didn’t have control, probably after we brought on our substitutes,” the coach added.
“It takes a bit of time to find ourselves again in the right positions. The end of the game was more about us chasing a goal in any form or way to do it. Probably not the most orthodox but obviously an important three points for the team and well deserved.
Source: eNCA
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