Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou WANTS his team to continue to be determined in the six matches they will play in the Betway Premiership this season, even though the chances of them winning the title have decreased.
The Blacks slipped back into the title race, drawing 2-2 with Richards Bay FC at Mhlathuze Sports Complex on Friday night.
This result left Mamelodi Sundowns leading the log with 56 points from 23 games, followed by Pirates with 55 points from 24 games.
Bay took the lead with Thulani Gumede’s goal in the first half, Magebhula equalized with Oswin Appollis in the second half.
Lindokuhle Zikhali’s shot again put Natal Rich Boyz ahead before Lebone Seema scored another equalizer for Pirates to end the game.
“We didn’t get what we came for. We came here intending to take three points that would help us in the fight for the league title. The game didn’t go the way we wanted. We created chances and could have taken the lead first but they got us with a goal that came from a free kick,” said Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
“It is not easy to play here and face a brave and organized team like Richards Bay. It was not easy but my players showed courage by coming back in this game. Unfortunately we ran out of time because I believe that if there were five or ten minutes we could have scored another goal.
“It is very difficult now but nothing is impossible in football. We still have a little chance to dream and we should not lose hope. Even though we lost two points, we need to unite and keep believing because we still have important games to play,” concluded the coach.
Pirates will play next in the league against MaZulu FC at Orlando Amstel Arena next Saturday. Sundowns, who are busy with Caf Champions League matches, will play the next Betway Premiership match against Stellenbosch FC at Loftus Versfeld on April 22.