Ndaba blames poor finishing as Orlando Pirates draw with AmaZulu

Orlando Pirates defender Nkosikhona Ndaba says wasteful finishing cost his side victory in their 1-1 draw with AmaZulu at Kings Park Stadium in Durban on Wednesday.

The Buccaneers were unable to maintain their perfect start to the defence of their Betway Premiership title after being held by Usuthu.

The result leaves Orlando Pirates in second place after two matches, behind Kaizer Chiefs, who have taken top spot.

Speaking to the club’s media team after the match, left-back Ndaba said Pirates had created enough opportunities to win but failed to make the most of them in front of goal.

“It’s always difficult to play against AmaZulu, especially away from home. We knew it was going to be a tough game, but we managed to come away with a point.” Ndaba said.

The defender acknowledged that a draw was not the result Pirates wanted, particularly after the team had been able to create several openings during the contest.

“Although one point is not enough, we created a lot of chances and unfortunately only managed to convert one.

“I believe that if we can improve our finishing and make the most of the opportunities we create, we can win a lot more games.

“We need to be more clinical in those key moments because the chances were there for us. If we can turn more of them into goals, we will give ourselves a better opportunity to take all three points in matches like this.”

Ndaba also reflected on the personal significance of returning to KwaZulu-Natal, where he was welcomed by familiar faces and received birthday gifts from people he knows.

“It’s always a great feeling to come back home to KZN and see familiar faces. It was also nice to receive birthday gifts from people I know.

“However, the day didn’t go exactly as I had hoped because I couldn’t get the three points I wanted. I really wanted to celebrate my birthday with a win.”

Despite the disappointment, Orlando Pirates will have an early opportunity to respond when they face Chippa United on Sunday.

The match will also take place at Kings Park Stadium, giving the Buccaneers a chance to secure their first win since the draw and deliver a stronger attacking performance.

The fixture is scheduled to kick off at 15:00.