Orlando Pirates may have beaten Durban City 2-0, but there are still areas of concern for Abdeslam Ouaddou.
The victory at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Thursday evening saw the Buccaneers close the gap to league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to four points, while they still have two matches in hand.
Lebone Seema and Tshepang Moremi were on target as Ouaddou‘s side claimed all three points at home.
However, despite the convincing scoreline, Pirates were far from comfortable, particularly during the first half.
Here’s what we learned from Orlando Pirates’ win over Durban City
New signings not firing at times
Pirates struggled to find their rhythm in the opening 45 minutes, with some of their new signings finding it difficult to make an impact.
The likes of Simphiwe Masilela, Thapelo Mokobodi and Kabelo Kgositsile struggled to break down a well-organised Durban City defence and were unable to create many clear-cut opportunities.
It took a moment of quality from Seema, who rose highest to head Orlando Pirates in front, to open up the game.
Once they had the breakthrough, the Buccaneers began to dictate proceedings and looked far more comfortable.
Sipho Chaine still the real deal
Sipho Chaine once again showed why he is regarded as one of the leading goalkeepers in the country alongside Ronwen Williams.
The Pirates goalkeeper produced two excellent saves in the first half to keep his side in the game when Durban City threatened.
Chaine faced criticism last season from some quarters, with questions raised about how often he was being tested behind a strong Pirates defence.
This season, however, whenever he has been called upon, he has consistently delivered.
He has already kept more than five clean sheets this campaign, while his performances against Durban City once again highlighted his importance to the Buccaneers.
Problem with Pedersen
Sebastian Pedersen was handed an opportunity to impress against Durban City, but the new signing struggled to make an impact.
The striker failed to register a shot on target and appeared out of sync with the players around him for much of the game.
Orlando Pirates eventually found the breakthrough without him having a major influence on proceedings, but Ouaddou will want to see more from Pedersen as he continues to adapt to his new surroundings.
With competition for places increasing, the Danish forward will need to find his rhythm quickly if he is to establish himself as a regular in the Pirates attack.
