Andries Sebola urges Orlando Pirates to stay calm in title decider against Orbit College

Orlando Pirates legend Andries Sebola says the team must stick to their tried-and-tested formula when they face Orbit College in their must-win Betway Premiership season finale at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off).

Pirates were held to a goalless draw by Durban City at Orlando Stadium last Saturday. That result delayed their league coronation as they remained second on the log with 66 points, two behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have already completed their season.

Sebola, who won the league with Pirates in the early 1990s, pulled no punches when reflecting on the team’s recent setback in front of their home supporters during their title pursuit.

“They were overconfident. They thought they had already won the game before it was played,” Sebola told Independent Media. “They wanted glory against Durban City so that they could avoid facing Orbit, who are fighting to avoid relegation.

“The lack of experience also counted against them. They have never been in that situation before. There was no leader who could guide them through what was going to happen on the day.

“They put themselves under unnecessary pressure because they could have relaxed and played their normal football. They didn’t play according to the coaches’ plan or the way we know them, but for themselves that day.”

Not all is lost for Pirates. They will be crowned champions if they beat Orbit at the already sold-out World Cup venue on Saturday.

Given everything that transpired in Orlando, Sebola has warned the players against complacency, being overwhelmed by the occasion and chasing personal glory. He believes it will be important for the team to stick to their philosophy, especially with Orbit desperate to avoid relegation.

“They need to keep calm, knowing that it won’t be easy,” Sebola said. “Orbit want at least a point, especially looking at the result of the other team (Marumo Gallants).

“It won’t be easy, especially given the fact that the game is already sold out. They just need to play their normal game. They need to play as a team because they know each other well. They must not be selfish by chasing individual glory and wanting to boast that they won the league for Pirates after 14 years.”

Pirates are expected to win the game on paper. They boast superior depth in attack and defence, having scored 56 goals, while goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has kept a record-extending 20 clean sheets in the league this season.

Sebola admits that Pirates have goals in them, but stressed the importance of taking their chances early in the match to settle into the game.

“The team Pirates won the league against that particular year (2012) was Golden Arrows,” Sebola recalled. “Arrows were in a good position at the time, and now Orbit need at least a point to preserve their status.

“It’s going to be tough. As long as the referee is fair, we’ll see good football. The Pirates I know will create chances, but they must convert them as soon as possible so that they can settle their nerves and relax.”