Orlando Pirates boss Abdeslam Ouaddou didn't hold back after his side's 6-0 win, calling out the home fans at Orlando Stadium while praising the travelling "Ghost". Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has launched a scathing critique on Sunday of the club’s home support, claiming that his players are being stifled by boos at Orlando Stadium, while flourishing under "unwavering" support on the road.
Pirates reaffirmed their ambitions in the Betway Premiership title race, thrashing TS Galaxy 6-0 away, as they returned to the top of the log with 51 points, one ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who are in second place and have a game in hand.
The Sea Robbers cruised to the calm waters of the victory through a hat-trick from Relebohile Mofokeng, a goal apiece from Tshepang Moremi and Kamogelo Sebelebele, and an own goal from Mlungisi Mbunjana. Having controlled the game from start to finish, there were no nervy moments for The Ghost in the stands, as they were entertained by a scoring spree.
Ouaddou, speaking during his post-match duties deep in the bowels of Mbombela Stadium, lauded the support of The Ghost, who came out in numbers, while clearly taking a jab at the fans who come out at Orlando Stadium and do not take kindly to the mistakes made by the players.
“Wherever we go in South Africa, especially here or in Durban, the boys are supported by the fans, and you can see that they are not stressed,” Ouaddou said.
“When we have true support, you can see that the players are flying. When you miss a chance, or misplace a pass, and you start getting booed by your own supporters, you come onto the pitch and start to feel stressed. You are not in a good environment.
“So, thanks to the fans for (Sunday). They were the 12th man, and that’s what we are looking for (in all our games).”
With the advantage still on Sundowns to win a record ninth title in a row, Pirates and the supporters still need each other to win their remaining eight matches and put the pressure on the Brazilians. That’s why Ouaddou will know that the more his players remain focussed, the less the boo-boys will have a say in their championship charge.
*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