Ouaddou condemns Pirates’ ‘worst half’ despite Sekhukhune win

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou described his side’s first-half display against Sekhukhune United as the worst since he took charge, despite the team securing a 2-0 victory in the Betway Premiership.

The Sea Robbers strengthened their position at the top of the table with a convincing win at Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday evening.

Boitumelo Radiopane opened the scoring before Oswin Appollis added a second after the interval, allowing Pirates to continue their perfect start to their home campaign at the Arena. The result was their third victory at the venue.

However, Ouaddou was dissatisfied with the way his team controlled the match, particularly in midfield. He said Pirates struggled to dictate the tempo and failed to impose their style during the opening 45 minutes.

“I think it is the worst half we’ve had since I have been at Pirates. We completely did not have any control of the game in the heart of the middle, and that’s where the game is important. It’s where you master the game, and we didn’t have any control in that area.

“I think it’s worrying; it is worrying for me because if you are a team that wants to play some nice football and you don’t have any control in the middle, then it can be quite difficult.

“At halftime, we tried to make some tactical adjustments, asking the defence to be a little bit closer to the midfielders. We asked our 10s to be more available in the half space and to diversify the runs as well. The problem is that we were predictable.

“It was slightly better, slightly better in the second half, but to be honest, I think it’s not a game that will stay in the memory. The only positive is the three points and the goal of Radiopane.”

Ouaddou’s criticism came after Pirates had done enough to claim another important league win, with the result adding to their strong home record and keeping them at the summit of the Betway Premiership.

The coach will now expect a sharper display when Pirates meet Sekhukhune United again on Saturday, this time in the second leg of their MTN8 semi-final.

Pirates take advantage into MTN8 second leg

Pirates will carry a 1-0 advantage into the match after winning the first leg against Babina Noko by the same scoreline.

Ouaddou will be hoping the narrow lead provides a platform for his players to produce the improved performance he is seeking. The victory over Sekhukhune in the league secured the points, but the coach made clear that the manner of the display, especially before half-time, did not meet his expectations.

The second meeting gives Pirates the opportunity to progress in the MTN8, while Sekhukhune United will aim to overturn the deficit and reach the next stage.