BUCS SLOW OUT BLOCKS
SALENG: LAMENTS A POOR START IN FIRST-HALF AGAINST HUNGRY LIONS Once Pirates switched over to high-pressing in the second-half did they manage to unlock their opponents.
After only scoring one goal in the first-half against Hungry Lions, Orlando Pirates’ attacking-midfielder Monnapule Saleng said they could have had a much better start to their 4-0 victory against the lower league side in the Nedbank Cup last-16 clash at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
Pirates barely created clearcut goal-scoring chances against Lions in the opening 45 minutes. Instead, it was the visitors who launched some threats on the Bucs goal, with their speedy players Jan Modise and Raymond Daniels causing trouble for the home side’s defence.
The Motsepe Foundation Championship club even enjoyed knocking the ball around, with their midfielder Tshidiso Masisi looking comfortable on the cross.
However, Pirates went on to create some half-chances, with Relebohile Mofokeng looking to turn things around for the Buccaneers in attack.
It was only in the 21st minute that the hosts would go on to take the lead, which was through an own-goal – but to their credit, there was a nice build-up before the goal which resulted in Lions defender Morena Monaheng scoring in his own net.
Saleng said it was all about pressing Lions high in the second period, which worked for Pirates as they went on to score three more goals thanks to a brace by Tshegofatso Mabasa and Saleng.
“We didn’t play our normal game in the first-half. But we managed to get an early goal, even though it was an own-goal.
“We managed to play our normal football in the second-half. So, we pressed them and we created more chances,” said the Pirates attacking midfielder.
With the Ghosts having come out in numbers at Orlando, there was an electrifying atmosphere from the fans and Saleng acknowledged them for their support.
“We love the support from our fans, they must always support us. They always support during bad times, and they are with us even during good times.”
With the spot in the quarterfinals sealed, Bucs will now have some good time to rest following a hectic schedule in the last few weeks, with the Fifa international break coming up.