The reigning PSL champions are now nine points behind log leaders SuperSport United after 10 rounds of matches following their 1-1 draw against Moroka Swallows at Orlando Stadium last night.
The Buccaneers needed a late equaliser from defender Happy Jele to salvage a point after David Mathebula had given Swallows the lead in the 30th minute. Swallows looked to be cruising towards all three points, but a lapse of concentration cost them dearly.
With 20 matches to go, Leal admits that they have not had as good a start as they would have wanted, but insists that he is not losing patience.
“For sure, it is not a good result since we were playing at home and were expected win, but at the end of the day it was one point that will help us on the road.
“I was not satisfied with the overall performance; we have played better in previous games, but today we had to make three changes due to injuries and it was not easy to play with the changes we made.” Are you losing patience with Bucs? Have your say on Facebook HERE.
Leal, however, was quick to point out that last season, Mamelodi Sundowns were ahead by seven points after almost the same number of games, but went on to drop points and ultimately lost the League title.
“Last season, after the nine games, Pirates were almost in the same situation. We were fifth with some teams close behind and one or two ahead of us by as much as nine points,” he says.
“We have not regained our momentum since our loss to Maritzburg. On the other hand, SuperSport are having a good start. But we are working hard, especially on finishing because this is the only thing that makes a team win.
“The competition will be played up to the last game and I’m a Brazilian and Brazilians never give up. We will keep on fighting and preparing our team for the long road ahead.”
Your comments on this story...
Julio leal is a tactician period... Mxoyana is our future left back... Those of us who are familiar with the under 23 we understand that he is the best left back in his age group in South Africa so its was just the nerves and nothing else...
No one can argue the fact that the style of Play at Pirates is better and quicker... But this guy knows what he is doing period... In terms of tactics I am fully behind Leal... Swallows will be beaten at dobsinville... Football 101 was mastered at the University of Orlando.
Coach just win a Treble and we will do the talking later.
bring the Telkom home, plus Nedbank, the league is a Marathon and you have players who can run. CAF will be a bonus.
Khosi by Nature
Honestly speakin yersterday's performance was below par n i think high time u come up with UR OWN strategy n system of play,huhh!!!
Up the Treble Tsiping champs!!
Rona re batla Treble feela papa so pls bear tht in mind evryday.
Tsipaaaa!!
anyway up da bucs...until BOBBY submit his CV!!!
I'm sure you are happy with that draw like these pathetic monkeys from Ntakunyesa aka Sonono united.
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“Last season, after the nine games, Pirates were almost in the same situation. We were fifth with some teams close behind and one or two ahead of us by as much as nine points,” he says.
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Bashshe ba hleka ... will see who laughs last.
Pirates have only scored only 3 goals in 5 league matches @ orlando stadium this season.