Pirates looking to finish season on high after Cup final loss

Rayaan Jacobs says Orlando Pirates have put last week’s disappointing Nedbank Cup final behind them and are looking to finish the season on a high note.

The Pirates head performance analyst said this as the Buccaneers get ready to take on TS Galaxy in a Betway Premiership clash at the Orlando Stadium this afternoon.

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“We had two good days of preparation to be fair. It’s been an emotional week to say the least, but nevertheless there’s good spirit in the team. We have managed to overcome last weekend’s disappointment [losing to Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final],” Jacobs told the Pirates media.

“The players have been amazing; they have given us their full commitment. They showed us that they’re willing to achieve the rest of our objectives for the season.”

‘Galaxy is no easy fate’

Jacobs, who will be assisting interim coach Mandla Ncikazi in a new look Pirates technical team following Jose Riveiro’s departure, is expecting a tough encounter against The Rockets who are looking to retain their top eight status.

“We expecting a tough game that’s for sure, I mean TS Galaxy is no easy fate- they managed to find a good tactical balance by strengthening their central corridor, but only maintain width. They’re a team that on the day, if they find their rhythm and flow, they can easily score goals.

“We’re just going to continue with our job until the end of the season. We just need to keep the players motivated and fresh for the last four games and to pick up 12 points, that’s the bottom line.”

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Pirates dispatched Golden Arrows in midweek, winning 3-0 at Orlando Stadium to bounce back to winning ways after the Chiefs loss.

Galaxy, on the other side, are winless in the last five league matches, where they have claimed just two out of a possible 15 points. Their last victory was against AmaZulu two months ago.