Jose Riveiro’s comments sum up his admiration of Nkosinathi Sibisi

Orlando Pirates head coach José Riveiro’s comments after Nkosinathi Sibisi missed a penalty on Friday summed up how much he values the talented defender.

Veli Mothwa saved Sibisi’s penalty as Pirates drew 1-1 with AmaZulu on Friday night at the Orlando Stadium.

Pirates were in search of maximum points, with their last victory in the DStv Premiership coming last month when they defeated TS Galaxy 2-0.

The Buccaneers conceded early in the first half when Sphesihle Maduna scored from the penalty spot after Lehlohonolo Majoro was fouled in the box. 

Bucs levelled terms through Kermit Erasmus on the stroke of half-time. 

The Soweto giants had a chance to take the lead after being awarded a penalty in the second half. 

Sibisi stepped up to take the penalty, but Mothwa saved his low shot.

HE IS A ROCK

“Sibisi did it [taking a penalty]. We thank him because it’s not easy to get the responsibility,” Riveiro told the media.

The Spaniard further described the central defender as “a rock”, adding that he would bounce back immediately from the penalty disappointment.

“Hopefully, we have more frequent and more possibilities to score the penalties. Sibisi is a rock, and he will be back immediately.

“We were all disappointed with the results, but it’s not because we missed a penalty,” he said.

Pirates have had an inconsistent start to the 2022/23 seasons and often find it difficult to score goals.

The Ghost has managed only four wins, drawing four times and losing three times while scoring seven goals in 11 games played in the league.

KEY PLAYERS OUT

Despite having many of their key players out injured since the start of the new season, Pirates welcomed the high-profile signings of Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Kermit Erasmus last month to add firepower to the attack.

They lie fifth on the log standings, while AmaZulu is in ninth position. 

The Sea Robbers will be looking for a quick response to return to winning ways when they face Golden Arrows at Princess Magogo on Tuesday, 18 October.