Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi admits champions had to work hard for Betway Premiership win

Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi says the defending champions had to “grind” out their opening Betway Premiership victory, despite beating newcomers Milford FC 2-0 at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon.

The result moved Orlando Pirates into second place in the early league standings, behind leaders and arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs.

The Buccaneers took the lead in the 23rd minute when Oswin Appollis’ free-kick took a deflection and found its way into the net. Orlando Pirates then had to wait until the closing stages to secure the points, with Tshepang Moremi calmly finishing in the 85th minute.

Although the champions began their title defence with a win, Sibisi acknowledged that the performance itself fell short of the standards the team would expect. The captain also pointed to the timing of the match, with the squad still adapting after returning from pre-season and attempting to regain full rhythm.

“Really important one. I think we had to grind this one out,” he told OP TV.

“Wasn’t the best of performances but I think we’re coming from pre-season. Legs are still heavy; the boys are still trying to find the rhythm.

“But it’s important to get the victory and pull on it.”

Sibisi’s assessment reflected a match in which Orlando Pirates were able to take control of the result without producing what he regarded as their best display. Appollis’ set-piece provided the breakthrough, but Milford FC remained within a goal of their more experienced opponents until Moremi’s late finish settled the contest.

For Orlando Pirates, the three points represent a positive start to the campaign and place them immediately behind Kaizer Chiefs in the early table. Milford FC, meanwhile, began life in the Betway Premiership with defeat after being unable to respond to the two goals scored by the champions.

The victory gives Orlando Pirates an early platform as their players continue to build fitness and understanding following the pre-season period. Sibisi stressed the importance of taking the result even while the team’s performances develop, with the opening fixture offering an opportunity to begin the season with momentum.

The match also marked the first league outing of the campaign for the defending champions against one of the competition’s rookie sides. Orlando Pirates ultimately had the greater experience and quality in the decisive moments, with Appollis opening the scoring and Moremi providing the late insurance goal.

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