Orlando Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer identified the reason for his side’s failure to secure maximum points when speaking after the final whistle following the 1-1 draw against AmaZulu on Saturday night.
After finishing strong last season, the Buccaneers came into the clash at King’s Park as favourites against a side that barely escaped relegation.
Casual approach costs Orlando Pirates
On the night, it appeared as if the visitors would not encounter much trouble in opening their campaign with a victory, as they got on the scoresheet early on through a penalty converted by Gabadinho Mhango.
However, the optimism was short-lived with Lehlohonolo Majoro drawing level after he was just denied from the spot by Wayne Sandilands.
Speaking to Supersport after the game, the German said his side could have worked harder after taking the lead.
“After we scored, we were too casual. And that was very hard for us to come back in to the game,” the Pirates coach said. “The second half is the style we want. First half, not good for me, second half better. And we have work ahead. “The problem was not the opponent, the problem was ourself. We had not a normal build-up, not enough self-confidence, yes you can lose the ball, but we have too many turnovers and it was too easy. “Second half, we were more concentrated. But it’s not enough. We have a point, yes, but for me, we didn’t have enough chances to win the game. “We need players on the bench that bring in a freshness and I’m happy we have this.”
Josef Zinnbauer, Orlando Pirates coach
Stalemates all around
The result was one of three one-all draws registered across the league in its opening day.
In six matches played on Saturday, only defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, Supersport United and Baroka managed to come away with maximum points.
Two more matches are scheduled for Sunday afternoon, with Pirates’ next opponents Stellenbosch welcoming Soweto giants Moroka Swallows to Danie Craven Stadium for their first top-flight fixture in over five years, while newcomers Tshakhuma and TS Galaxy slug it out at Thohoyandou Stadium.
Pirates will next host Stellenbosch at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night.
