Sibisi vows ‘no let-up’ as Orlando Pirates begin Betway Premiership defence at home

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi says the champions must make their home ground a place where opponents “are not able to breathe” as they launch their Betway Premiership League title defence against newly promoted Milford FC on Saturday at Orlando Amstel Arena.

The Bafana Bafana defender, speaking at a media open day at Rand Stadium on Tuesday, underlined that the squad are fully aware of the responsibility that comes with defending the league crown and matching last season’s performance levels.

“I think with us, we know we have to deliver, that’s a given. As soon as you sign for this club, you have to deliver,” Sibisi told reporters. “I think last season was nothing short of spectacular from the guys. As I said, it’s a standard that we’ve set and we have to maintain (it).”

High-tempo ‘suffocate’ approach to continue

Sibisi stressed that Pirates will not ease off in their approach as they prepare to face Milford FC, who are making their debut in the top flight after promotion.

Referring to the atmosphere at Orlando Amstel Arena, the 30-year-old centre-back said the team intends to impose the same relentless style that drove their title triumph.

“Why not? I think I’ve heard the comments from a few coaches saying it’s not easy coming to Orlando and it should be the case this season where teams are not able to breathe,” he said.

“I think it speaks to how the coach wants us to play; to always keep that high tempo, high level to make sure that we suffocate opponents. I think this season won’t be any different,” Sibisi added.

Home support seen as key weapon

The Pirates captain, who previously wore the armband at Golden Arrows, highlighted the influence of the club’s supporters both in Johannesburg and on the road.

“So, I think also having them in their full numbers, full capacity, whether we’re playing in Cape Town or Orlando or wherever, we felt the support,” he said.

Sibisi explained that the backing from the stands last term played a significant part in sustaining their consistency across the campaign.

The defender said he felt a strong personal connection with the fanbase throughout the title-winning season and believes similar support can help the team match – and potentially surpass – their achievements.

The 30-year-old added that if the crowd continues to drive the side in the same way, Pirates have every chance of reproducing last season’s heroics as they begin life as defending champions.

Standards set for champions’ defence

While new signings have arrived at the club ahead of the season opener, Sibisi’s message was that the core expectation within the dressing room remains unchanged: to deliver for Orlando Pirates and uphold the standards established in their successful campaign.

With Milford FC providing the first test of their reign, Sibisi made clear that the champions intend to start as they mean to go on – with intensity, pressure and a home venue that visiting sides find deeply uncomfortable.