Brandon Truter praises Sekhukhune tactical discipline in Bucs draw

A week after progressing to the final of the Nedbank Cup, where they will again face the Buccaneers later this month, and having to deal with a flu bug in the squad – Truter made six changes to the line-up.

He was pleased with the response.

"We had six changes in the lineup. We had three days to prepare, change the structure in terms of our defensive block, controlling the opponent. We want them to play where they can have the ball," he said.

Though Pirates were the dominant side, Truter insists the hosts were not able to hurt them despite enjoying that much ball possession.

"The structure was good but we struggled a bit to get out on a counter, at times we got 2v2 with the centre backs. But they controlled possession in the areas where we wanted them to play, I think the only thing that was lacking was getting out," the coach explained.

Sekhukhune held on to seventh place and their fate is in their own hands next week to consolidate a Top 8 spot. Babina Noko face SuperSport United, who need a win to challenge Pirates for runners-up place and secure CAF Champions League participation.

Truter was happy to settle for a point against the Buccaneers. 

"A lot of accolades, well done to the boys. [Sibusiso Vilakazi] Villa also 90 minutes today, [Katlego] Mkhabela good game, [Philani] Zulu good game, [Yamba] Tresor, Villa and then up top it's been a while since we've seen [Tshegofatso] Mabasa and he came in and he put in a good serve at 60 minutes. So, for us, it's a point away from home against a very good team."