Jose Riveiro 'happy' as Pirates end winless run

Monnapule Saleng scored a brace to help ease the pressure on coach Jose Riveiro as Orlando Pirates downed Golden Arrows 2-0 on Tuesday evening at the Princess Mogogo Stadium. 

The victory was the Buccaneers' first win in three league games, moving them up to fourth in the standings.

Riveiro, who has come under criticism for his side's lack of goals this season, praised their positive start to the game and believes it was a key reason for the victory. 

"It was a good beginning of the game, the beginning we were looking for," Riveiro told reporters.  

"We usually have a good start at home but we were lacking this type of beginning of a game away. 

"It was crucial for us that we got the lead and it happened today because I think we played good football."

Saleng's first half double were his first goals of the season while his teammate Kermit Erasmus provided both assists. Riveiro was full of praise for the duo and the chemistry within the squad.

"I said many times, they are working well and even the ones who are not in the starting eleven, you can just imagine how exceptional they've been working.  

"We have many players up front who have talent, and when you have some talent with good structure like we try to provide them, it is easier for them to find interactions and associations for them to show the talent that they have.  

"Everyone is contributing, but it's time for the ones you mentioned (Saleng and Erasmus) and hopefully they will continue to perform at this level and even better." 

The victory could be a much welcomed boost for The Sea Robbers' confidence as they will play Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of the MTN8 semi-final on Saturday. However, Riveiro has warned his side that he expects more from them and they need