Orlando Pirates FC remain a focal point this week as Durban City FC captain Siphamandla Ncanana clarifies controversial remarks made about the Soweto giants after their goalless draw in May. League standing: 2nd in Premier Soccer League, 3 pts, 1W-0D-0L from 1 game, recent form W.
Siphamandla Ncanana, the Durban City FC skipper, faced backlash from Orlando Pirates FC supporters after stating 'Pirates is just a name' in a post-match interview. The comment followed a 0-0 stalemate at Orlando Stadium during the penultimate league fixture of last season.
The Ghost, as Orlando Pirates FC fans are known, interpreted Ncanana’s words as disrespectful to the club’s legacy in South African football. Goals this season: 2 scored, 0 conceded (+2 goal difference). Ncanana insists his remarks were taken out of context and were not meant to undermine the club’s stature.
At the MTN8 launch in Randburg, Ncanana explained, 'I think maybe they misinterpreted my statement. It was not that I was disrespectful or have something against Pirates.' He emphasized that on the pitch, it is always 11 versus 11, regardless of reputation.
Durban City FC, coming off a 1-0 loss to Sekhukhune United in their Betway Premiership opener, now prepare to face Orlando Pirates FC in the MTN8 quarterfinals at Orlando Amstel Arena this Saturday. Ncanana is eager to meet the opposition’s passionate supporters in Soweto.
