NEWS: ‘How I wish our fellow colleagues can have the exposure I’ve had’ – Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi revels in learning from diligent Jose Riveiro

“There are so many lessons learned (from), maybe like you’ve put it, being an assistant coach and a head coach, how much I wish our fellow colleagues can have the exposure that I’ve had of being part of that project of Orlando Pirates,” Ncikazi told media in Durban ahead of the showdown.

“Not like all other teams, Pirates are unique in the way they do things.

“Maybe the beauty of everything is being part of that technical team where Jose is the head coach.

“Without exaggerating, I still have to meet a person who works that hard. Who is a professional, and I always wish that our fellow South Africans can learn how seriously (he) takes his job,” he said.

“Normally as coaches, we know two hours, but (he arrives) at 6 am and leaves at 3 pm. That becomes a daily routine.

“A lot of analysis is done, there’s a lot of professionalism, and there is space to allow other departments such as conditioning and analysis to participate in the club’s development. And the leadership and the wisdom that is in the office,” Ncikazi said as he assured that he has grown professionally from working with Riveiro.

“I was a head coach before, but I think I have grown more as an assistant at Orlando Pirates than I was a head coach at other clubs.

“I’m happy to be part of the project and I just hope in my presence and with the little contribution that one can make, the club becomes successful because it’s not about us.

“That’s a movement that brings happiness to the country.”

As Ncikazi and Riveiro aim to add another piece of silverware to their trophy cabinet, the assistant coach admits it won’t be easy against a Stellies side that gave them real problems last season.

In four meetings all competitions, the Maroons won three to Pirates’ single victory.  

“The stats are supporting the game they (Stellenbosch) are playing. When you look at the stats, the most counter-pressing team, the team that is very strong in transition is Stellies,” Ncikazi said.

“While we are aware, how we deal with that on the day (will be important). But we know their strengths, we have to deal with that to put our hands on the trophy.

“We are aware of Titus’ strengths. We are aware even in the absence of Rayners who has gone, the structure has not changed.

“The ability of them to enjoy defending because they know the prize of winning the ball. So, it’s two contrasting styles, one team is more possession-based and the other team is prepared to sit back and go on a transition.”