Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained the absences of Sipho Mbule and Evidence Makgopa against Magesi.
The Buccaneers picked up a 2–0 victory over Dikwena tša Meetse at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday afternoon, moving up to second place in the Betway Premiership standings.
Key players Mbule and Makgopa were not part of the matchday squad and watched from the stands, a decision that raised eyebrows.
It was the second consecutive game Mbule did not feature in, having also been unavailable for the midweek clash against Sekhukhune United.
Ouaddou explained that the exclusion of the duo was a tactical decision, taking into account the busy run of upcoming fixtures and the need to keep his squad fresh.
“It was the tactical choice regarding the profile of the opponents,” said Ouaddou.
“We have a lot of games coming especially next week, we have AmaZulu, we have the cup.
“We are going to play every after three days. So, it’s very important to manage the players.”
The Sea Robbers will take on AmaZulu in their next league outing at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday, 3 January.