Orlando Pirates coach Mandla Ncikazi praised captain Innocent Maela after his final game with the team. The 32-year-old defender played against Magesi FC at Orlando Stadium last night. Maela will leave the club to start a new chapter in his career. The coach said goodbye to the player who helped the team for many years. Fans waved as Maela left the field during the 67th minute.
Ncikazi first met Maela when he played for Thanda Royal Zulu. The coach had wanted to recruit the fast winger when they both worked in KwaZulu-Natal. Maela grew up through the Pirates' system and became a respected leader. The coach called him smart, educated, , kind to others around him. Ncikazi believes Maela will succeed in whatever he does next.
Pirates had a tough season after losing three major competitions recently. The team lost their coach, Jose Riveiro, just weeks before the season ended. Players still gave their best effort despite the disappointments they faced. Ncikazi felt proud of how his squad played through difficult times. The coach reminded everyone that Pirates players must always try to win every match they play.
Ncikazi first met Maela when he played for Thanda Royal Zulu. The coach had wanted to recruit the fast winger when they both worked in KwaZulu-Natal. Maela grew up through the Pirates' system and became a respected leader. The coach called him smart, educated, , kind to others around him. Ncikazi believes Maela will succeed in whatever he does next.
Pirates had a tough season after losing three major competitions recently. The team lost their coach, Jose Riveiro, just weeks before the season ended. Players still gave their best effort despite the disappointments they faced. Ncikazi felt proud of how his squad played through difficult times. The coach reminded everyone that Pirates players must always try to win every match they play.
