Mandla Ncikazi has outlined Orlando Pirates’ preparations for the league clash against Stellenbosch FC, with the side desperately searching for their first three points this season.
Pirates have endured a start to the Betway Premiership campaign that was largely unexpected considering all the transfer business done, losing their two matches thus far.
They will be aiming to arrest that undesirable run when hosting stubborn Stellenbosch at Orlando on Wednesday (19:30).
Assistant coach Ncikazi laid out his expectations of the Winelands-based outfit and what the home side will have to do.
"It’s no secret how Stellenbosch plays. They play the same way, but they do it successfully. Whether it’s long throw-ins, quick transitions, or [Andre] De Jong doing what he does best, they stick to their strengths," said Ncikazi said, as per Pirates media.
"What’s important for us, though, is our preparation. We’ve been performing well, but unfortunately, we haven’t been able to translate those performances into results.
"I think the key for us is to make sure that our performances correlate with the outcomes.
"We can’t have data showing that we’re ahead in areas like shots at goal or ball possession, only for the final result to say otherwise.
"That correlation is what’s crucial for us. The sooner we manage to align our strong performances with positive results, the better things will turn in our favour," he emphasised.
Meanwhile, Steve Barker’s men will also be in search of their first win, having collected a single point in their two previous league outings.
