Riveiro – Stellies Surprised Us!

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro told the media after their Wednesday’s 1-1 stalemate against Stellenbosch FC at Danie Craven Stadium that the Winelands based team’s approach surprised them.

Stellies created numerous scoring opportunities in the first half but failed to convert any of them, only for Pirates to grab the opening goal on the stroke of half-time through new defender Nkosinathi Sibisi’s header.

A lead that the Buccaneers new mentor, Riveiro strongly felt was not deserved. Junior Mendieta leveled matters for Stellies with a powerful header in the 54th minute.

“I have to say that we were very surprised about the Stellenbosch rhythm in the first minutes,” Riveiro said.

“We didn’t find ways to get rid of the pressing, whatever comes to my mind will sound like an excuse.

“The fact is that they were much better than us in the first period and the game is like this, we went into half-time with an advantage and we didn’t deserve it at all.

“They did a fantastic job in the first half, and we corrected the situation in the second half.

“I think the team was much better at the beginning of the second period and then when we were probably in our best moment of the game, they equalised.

“I think in the end both teams had chances due to the craziness at times on the pitch, I think the result is fair, both teams deserved to get something.”

Written by: Diski Voice