While Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro understands missing out on an opportunity to start matches might be difficult for players to deal with, the mentor has been impressed by the attitude and contributions of his bench.
Pirates made a solid start to the 2024/25 campaign, qualifying for the MTN8 final, Caf Champions League group stages and winning their two fixtures in the Betway Premiership.
The Sea Robbers’ last three victories against Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy in the Champions League, Chippa United and Polokwane City in the Premiership, have been secured with the great help of the bench.
Against Jwaneng, Monnapule Saleng scored at the death after an excellent play by Relebohile Mofokeng off the bench as Pirates claimed a 1-0 win.
Saleng was again on the scoresheet against Chippa during the referee’s optional time to hand the Soweto giants a 2-1 victory.
Evidence Makgopa came off the bench to score a brace in Riveiro’s men’s 3-0 win over City on Tuesday.
Karim Kimvuidi, who also came off the bench, played a key role in setting up Makgopa’s first goal.
“I’m happy with the contribution from the bench, it was crucial in Botswana and against Chippa as well to come back (and win the game),” Riveiro said.
“It was crucial in the second game against Jwaneng and today (Tuesday) was exceptionally good.
“Like everybody who is not on the starting 11, it’s difficult but the people coming from the bench are showing that they are ready to die for the team.
“Even if they get a minute. That’s very good news for all of us, the coach said.
Saleng is the man for Pirates once again 😤⚽
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) September 24, 2024
He smashes it home from a tight angle 👇
📺 Stream #BetwayPrem on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc@Betway_za pic.twitter.com/95Vnv6YZKk
Riveiro is blessed with a good squad as he is sometimes forced to bench or leave players out of the matchday squad that could easily walk into the starting line-up of other teams in the league.
“People there are waiting for their opportunity, I think about Evidence, same as Karim, (Nkosinathi) Sibisi and everyone,” Riveiro said.
“They are performing at the level that we need in those certain moments of the game because there are many days where you will dominate and control but still find yourself in the last stages of the match at a 0-0 scoreline and the game is not clearly done.
“The (key) contribution can come in the last five, 10, 15 or 25 minutes.”
After two victories from as many league outings, the Buccaneers will be hoping to maintain the winning streak when they visit Richards Bay FC at King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi on Sunday at 15:00.
