Orlando Pirates‘ new signings have been hit and misses so far this season.
The likes of Sipho Mbule, Oswin Appollis and Kamogelo Sebelebe have impressed so far, while the likes of Tshepo Mashiloane have struggled.
In the four matches Pirates played, they have won once this season. Against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final first leg, Sebelebele scored a late goal to secure a draw.
“It was not an easy game, and it was my first time starting,” The Bucs attacker told OP TV.
Orlando Pirates star Sebelebele impresses
“So, it wasn’t easy, but I pushed. After they [Sundowns] scored, I still didn’t give up. I had a feeling we would score and win the game.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t win this game, but we will try and push so that we can win the second leg.
“And we couldn’t afford to lose this game because it would’ve meant that we lose two games in succession.
“So, we have to come back and win. This is Orlando Pirates.
“The Orlando Pirates that people know has to make a comeback.”
Mashiloane struggling at new team
Former TS Galaxy head coach Dan ‘Dance’ Malesela has weight in on Mashiloane’s struggles at Pirates.
“When you embark on a new journey, people will always question everything you do,” Malesela tells KickOff.
“Players improve with game time, and sometimes we are too quick to criticize them without giving them a chance.
“I’ve said it before: Tshepo’s only challenge at Pirates will be dealing with crosses. It’s an issue he faced here with us, too. He needs to improve his reading and anticipation of crosses. Other than that, he is a fine player,” he added.
Orlando Pirates signed 12 new players
“People should not rush to judge; they need to give others a chance. No one starts a new job knowing everything about the company. We all need time to adapt.
“I also encourage the senior players at Pirates to help guide him on how things are done during games at the club.
“The good news is that struggling to deal with crosses is a challenge that can be trained and coached.”
Can Mashiloane improve?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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