Ncikazi proud of ‘amazing’ Orlando Pirates

Pirates v SuperSport United: Photo Credit: Orlando Pirates.

Orlando Pirates interim coach Mandla Ncikazi has hailed his team as ‘amazing human beings’ after they beat battling SuperSport United 1-0 in the Betway Premiership at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Tuesday, May 20.

The caretaker coach, holding fort following Jose Riveiro’s premature exit, lauded the Buccaneers for pushing to etch their names in the club’s history.

The former Lamontville Golden Arrows mentor said it was difficult for his side to cope with the relegation-threatened SuperSport due to fatigue. Mohau Nkota scored the only goal of the game in the second half.

“I am proud of the team that got the three points. These human beings are amazing. No complaints, they dig in every day. One can only be proud that this group of players is willing to put their names in the history of the club,” he said.

Ncikazi acknowledged the impact of their substitutes, while singling out debutant goalkeeper Siyabonga Dladla, for his clean sheet performance.

“The substitutions contributed very well…we are a team that is playing game number 50, and you are conscious that the legs will give in. I am happy that the young boys are taking their opportunities. You couldn’t tell that it was a young boy between the sticks,” he added.

Pirates took their tally to 59 points, 14 points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns in the 16-member league table. SuperSport remain 14th, with goal difference separating them from Cape Town City.

The Soweto giants wrap up the season with games against AmaZulu FC and Magesi FC on May 24 and 28, respectively, while Arendse’s men face a must-win assignment with Richards Bay on Saturday.