Pirates on the cusp of more history

Orlando Pirates captain, Innocent Maela, is relishing making history by becoming the first side to win three consecutive MTN8 titles.

Pirates have won two MTN8 titles since coach Jose Riveiro’s arrival and will look to lift a third this weekend against Stellenbosch at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

With history beckoning, Maela says it’s something they are aware of but not what they are focusing on going into the fixture.

“Every time we have an opportunity to make history or leave a legacy, obviously it’s inspiring but at this moment, preparing for the final this week, as I said the focus is mainly on training, how we prepare,” Maela told the media on Tuesday.

“But when you have an opportunity to make history and leave a little bit of legacy in this club, with rich history, obviously it’s inspiring and makes you want to push more. But it’s not at the top of our heads at the moment. It’s just to go out there, train well, do what we always do. How we prepare for all other matches with attention to detail.”

The skipper’s sentiments were supported by his coach, who said even though the 3-peat is not top of their minds, they will accept it should it happen.

Riveiro echoed the sentiments of the club captain, stating they are more focused on the task at hand than the talk of what may transpire after.

“I’m not a person who thinks much about these things until they are facts, the moment it’s fact, whatever we did. whatever we achieved, maybe we can speak about it,” he said.

“Meanwhile, it’s only a possibility, not something that’s something that’s keeping us busy, as Inno said, we’re just thinking about winning the match.”

The fixture between the sides will kick off at 6pm in front of a capacity crowd after tickets sold out within five hours of going on sale.