Orlando Pirates concluded their Betway Premiership campaign with a frustrating 1-1 home draw against Magesi on Wednesday night, a result that solidified their runners-up position in the league.
The stalemate also marked the end of an undefeated run for interim boss Mandla Ncikazi, who stepped in for the final four games of the season.
Under Ncikazi’s guidance, the Buccaneers secured three draws and a win, collecting six points and offering a much-needed glimpse of stability towards the end of the season.
Read: Orlando Pirates Secure Second Place with Stalemate Against Magesi FC
Speaking to the media after the match, a visibly frustrated Ncikazi attributed the draw to his team’s inability to convert their opportunities.
“I think this lesson should be taken going forward. I know it happens in other matches but I thought we were in control, we were dominant, we created the chances, we knew how they were going to play, but the difference is that we did not take the chances that we created,” he said.
The 56-year-old acknowledged the recent challenges faced by his squad. “I am really proud of the players for their performance tonight, it was not an easy task.
You play the semi-final, you loose. I think in two weeks, we lost three competitions. They lost a coach who has done well for the club, who has been very close to them.”
This difficult period, marked by exits from the CAF Champions League and Nedbank Cup and a coaching change, undoubtedly impacted the team’s morale and performance.
The match also held a morose undertone as it marked the final game for long-serving defender Innocent Maela. After a decade of dedicated service in the iconic black and white jersey, the 32-year-old played his last match for the Sea Robbers.
Ncikazi paid tribute to the former Bafana Bafana international, highlighting his leadership qualities.
“Maela has been a captain who has not played many games but he is always there to support and give direction to the players,” Ncikazi remarked, acknowledging Maela’s significant influence both on and off the pitch.
Maela leaves behind an impressive legacy, having made 209 appearances across all competitions for the Soweto giants. During his tenure, he was instrumental in securing eight trophies, including two Nedbank Cups, one Carling Black Label Cup, and four MTN8 titles. Beyond his defensive prowess, Maela also contributed six goals and 13 assists for the club.
As the curtain falls on this season, Orlando Pirates will now turn their attention to the upcoming campaign. They are set to kick off their next season with an MTN8 quarter-final clash against Polokwane City.