Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has spoken about how they bring out the best in Patrick Maswanganyi who scored a late winner in the Soweto Derby on Saturday.
The sold-out FNB Stadium erupted as “Tito” coolly slotted home a Panenka penalty in the 94th minute, securing a victory against arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership clash.
Just weeks ago, Maswanganyi faced criticism after missing a penalty in the Sea Robbers’ league defeat to Cape Town City.
Riveiro lauded the 26-year-old’s courage to take the responsibility, saying he believes few players would willingly put themselves on the line in such circumstances.
The Spanish coach explained that while Maswanganyi’s playing style, characterised by “Kasi Flava” has had him crucified at times, he allows the player to express himself freely to bring out his best.
JOSE RIVEIRO ON PATRICK MASWANGANYI – ‘HE ALWAYS WANTS THE BALL’
“I knew…just leave it there, I knew. I knew that if something like this happens, he’s going to take the ball,” said Riveiro.
“As much as people criticise Patrick. For me, from the coaching perspective, give me players that always want to be on the ball on situations like that, in games like today and when things are not going well.
“He always wants the ball. And he’s making mistakes because he’s putting himself on the line all the time. So, we’re blessed to have a player like him around.
“As much as sometimes he’s doing things that are not easy to understand, I want him to be himself on the field because that’s the way we can get the best part of Patrick in each and every game.
“And I think today he showed that he has that kind of personality to ask for those moments when the situation is crucial and critical and not easy to take.
“There’s not many personalities like that. Obviously, if it’s not going well it’s going to be…I know the discussion [criticism].
“But I’m happy for him after what happened in Cape Town to get a responsibility today in a scenario like this one in the 94th minute. So, yeah, fantastic mentality.”
RELATED STORY: Pirates snatch Soweto Derby victory with last-gasp penalty
