Orlando Pirates player Monnapule Saleng battle for the ball against Hungry Lions FC player Morena Monaheng during the Nedbank cup round 16 at Orlando Stadium Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has predicted even greater things for his side, after they won the MTN8 in dramatic fashion against Stellenbosch FC. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
While his side basked in the glory of winning the MTN8 title, Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has predicted greater things for his charges this season.
The Sea Robbers claimed the cup crown after beating Stellenbosch FC 3-1 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday.
The match was seemingly headed for extra-time with the scores locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes, before a contentious refereeing decision effectively handed the win to Pirates.
Referee Abongile Tom’s choice to allow a free kick to be taken quickly closer to the Stellies goal was the incorrect decision according to the laws of the game, and one which decided the contest. All this despite the protestations of the Stellenbosch players.
Since Riveiro had no influence on the controversial decision, he could not be blamed for revelling in the glory of becoming the first team to win the MTN8 three times in a row.
“These guys are making history. Today, one more time, it’s proof that it's just the beginning for them,” said Riveiro.
“We have an excellent team, young, with [a] future. And they have to keep pushing the level high, competing for major things even from the humbleness… Thank you to Stellenbosch. They played an exceptional final.”
One of those young players which Riveiro alluded to is Relebohile Mofokeng. The 19-year-old came on as a substitute late in the second half, and scored Pirates’ third when Stellies threw their players forward in their last-ditch effort to find an equaliser.
Pirates, though, did have the better share of possession and had more shots on target throughout the contest.
Unsurprisingly, Riveiro felt his side were deserved victors.
“I think Pirates was superior tonight, even though we started behind. We had to come back. I didn't have the feeling in the first half that we were far from doing it.
“We were patient. We managed to compete better in the last 20 minutes as well, controlling them. I think it was a very complete performance from our side.”