Manousakis – It Changes Everything In A Big Way

Richards Bay co-head coach Vasili Manousakis said being reduced to ten men just before halftime against Orlando Pirates made things incredible tough, and they had to change their plans accordingly.

Bay had been struggling in the first half, in Saturday’s goalless draw, but when Siyanda Msani was sent off just before the break, the technical teams’ plan to fix tactical issues became irrelevant.

Manousakis said that in the second half, they needed the team to be highly motivated and make sure they didn’t give Pirates any chances.

“Well, it changes everything in a big way, because we can’t correct the tactical challenges that we have, because now it’s irrelevant, especially with Siya being one of the challenges that we had that we spoke to him about,” Manousakis said at the post-match press conference.

“And it really becomes how do we approach this second half. Do we go 4-4-1, or we go 4-3-2 upfront, try and take it to Pirates, in which case, we’re leaving ourselves very exposed on the sides, which was the challenge in the first half in any case.

“So, ja, it changes things in a big way. And I think let’s be honest, it’s more now about motivation for the second half, it’s more about belief. It’s more about if they are going to get a chance, and if they are going to create something, let it be special.

“Let it not come from sloppiness, from a set piece or, give away one or two simple balls, which we did in the first half. So ja, that changes things quite a bit. And we’re probably the happier of the teams at the end of the day.”

In this edition of iDiski Times, you can read the full interview with Khune about his comeback with the Glamour Boys, his weight loss journey and plea to support Arthur Zwane. We also chat to Lyle Lakay after his Deadline Day loan from Mamelodi Sundowns to Cape Town City, while former Orlando Pirates skipper Lucky Lekgwathi assesses the Buccaneers transfer window. In the rumour mill we heard whispers about Kaizer Chiefs parting ways with Nike after 21 years and Daniel Akpeyi being considered by Chippa United. We also speak to Eric Tinkler ahead of his side’s CAF Champions League clash with Petro de Luanda. Read the full edition of iDiski Times below: