DStv PremiershipLatest Soccer News

When Moloi expects Pirates to be a well-oiled machine under Riviero

Orlando Pirates legend Teboho Moloi believes it is only a matter of time before the club becomes a well-oiled machine under head coach José Riviero.

Moloi has explained when he expects coach Riviero to bring out the outmost best of the Pirates players.

Pirates have been playing some mouth-watering enterprising football with Riviero in charge, though they have been struggling to find a consistent winning formula.

The Buccaneers made changes to their technical team and playing personnel at the start of the 2022/23 DStv Premiership season after an underwhelming showing last season under co-coaches Mandla Ncikazi and Fladu Davids at the helm.

Pirates finished sixth on the log standings and lost in the CAF Confederation Cup final against Moroccan side RC Berkane on penalties.

This record prompted Pirates’ hierarchy to make technical tweaks and bring in the Spanish mentor, Riviero on board.

TEBOHO MOLOI BACKS JOSE RIVIERO TO SHINE BRIGHTER

With Riviero steering the Bucs ship, the cub has already lifted a trophy this season after defeating AmaZulu 1-0 in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium last month.

Orlando Pirates Training Session on 2 August 2022 at Rand Stadium. Picture by Thabang Lepule/Orlando Pirates Football Club
Orlando Pirates Training Session. Picture by Thabang Lepule/Orlando Pirates Football Club

However, Moloi has suggested that he’s only expecting Riviero to bring the best out of Pirates after three seasons.

“Let’s not put the man [Riviero] under pressure because this is his first year,” Teboho Moloi told FARPost.

“Let’s leave him to rebuild and do what he thinks is right; give him the second year to find combinations.

“We need to give him time to instil his ideology into the players’ minds, but in the third year, that’s where we can start looking for results.

“So far, he has shown a glimpse of what he’s all about after winning the MTN8.

“We gave Ruud Krol the first season, second season, and in the third season, he delivered.

“So, let’s just give the coach the support to implant his footprint and support him,” Moloi added.

After 13 league games, the Sea Robbers have won five, drawn four and lost four times so far in the league.

Pirates return to league action with the highly-anticipated clash against Mamelodi Sundowns on the 30th of December at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

RELATED STORY: Pirates confirm signing Craig Martin Martin and Ndumiso Mabena

Back to top button