Bucs coach: I am a lucky coach…

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro believes he is working with an incredibly talented group of players, describing himself as œlucky.

The Buccaneers claimed the MTN8 trophy in a cup final marred by injuries and questionable calls from referee Luxolo Badi, but the goal from attacking midfielder Monnapule Saleng was enough to separate the two side.

œThis is pure happiness, there is nothing like winning. Almost nothing like it for us. It was a difficult game, Riveiro told the media after the win.

œThe last two weeks were not easy for us for many different reasons. The way we started was really tough - changing [Nkosinathi] Sibisi after the first minute [due to calf injury]. The way the team reacted, we did not lose the focus at all. We did not change the plan because the guys are ready to execute our plan. And that is the strength of this team.

Pirates also bounced back from the Soweto Derby loss to rivals Kaizer Chiefs last weekend at FNB Stadium, also through a contender for goal of the season from midfielder Yusuf Maart from the halfway line.

œWe showed today that we are mentally strong, improving and growing. They are a very good team, well organised with good ideas. We knew we would have problems with the long balls, but we did a good job in the scenario. It was a beautiful goal that made the difference, and it™s a typical final. We did not want to lose the lead. We stopped playing a bit, but we can improve this in the future to dominate scenarios like these. I am a lucky coach to work with a group of players like this, the coach explained.

By Mazola Molefe