Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
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Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou knows that a team of their calibre must find a balance between results and performances, but insists victories remain paramount in their title charge.
Pirates remained top of the Betway Premiership standings with 47 points after beating Richards Bay FC 2-0 courtesy of an open-play goal from Oswin Appollis and a penalty from Evidence Makgopa at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night.
However, Pirates were far from convincing. They played in patches and lacked fluidity, particularly in the final third. As a result, before Makgopa scored deep into stoppage time, Richards Bay came close to equalising late in the game.
It was the second match in a row in which Pirates produced an unconvincing performance for their supporters, both at home and in the stands, after needing a late winner against Polokwane City FC in Polokwane.
Ouaddou acknowledged their shortcomings in recent weeks but said people must be realistic and understand that results are the priority.
“We have to agree on that,” Ouaddou said. “When you coach such a big team in Africa, supported by fantastic fans all over South Africa, we have to balance the quality of football we play with winning. That is a fact.
“But the reality in football is that you can play well and still lose the game. It’s not a science. Today, I don’t want to throw everything in the bin.”
Ouaddou also praised Richards Bay’s grit and never-say-die attitude, particularly given how previous encounters between the two sides have unfolded.
“We have to analyse everything,” he said. “We must analyse the lack of control and how we can improve. The fact is we won 2-0 against a very good side. If you look at the history of games played against Richards Bay, you can see they are always tight.
“I am happy with this win. It keeps us at the top of the log. We are going to fight.”
Pirates will start the final quarter of their season – the last 10 games – at home to Siwelele, on Saturday in a clash they will be eager to win as they continue their push for balance in the title race.
*Mihlali Baleka is Independent Media's senior football reporter and a panelist on the group's soccer podcast, The D-Line, which is exclusive on our YouTube channel The Clutch