Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has stressed the importance of players from the bench after Kabelo Dlamini rescued a 1-0 win over Richards Bay with a stunning free-kick.
After a goalless first stanza, Pirates almost dropped points for the first time this season but second-half substitute Dlamini scored a stunning free-kick eight minutes before time to maintain the Buccaneers' winning start.
Riveiro complimented his players for staying focused despite a cup final coming up on Saturday.
READ | Pirates reclaim second spot with late winner
"Complex game but we did it in the end. That's the most important thing, we got enough opportunities even in the first-half to get the lead and have a different game ahead of us," Ribeiro said on SuperSport TV.
"But we had to fight until the end, to try to find a hole to put the ball in the back of the net. An excellent goal but the attitude of the players today was super, from the first minute. It's not easy to play these type of games before the cup final. Everybody showed a very high commitment in the game, with the results, with the three points.
"Everybody knows 'KB' is capable to put one more gear into the team when we need it. It didn't work the way we expected to be honest but good enough the contribution, especially with that excellent goal, that gave us the three points. It is important again that everybody on the bench is important to die for the team even if you play one minute and 'KB' today was exceptional," the Spanish coach said.
The 47-year-old mentor went on and previewed their MTN8 final clash against Stellenbosch at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
"Third time in a row there for us. We could celebrate today the three points, get a rest and make sure we have a good preparation for that final. It's a special one for all of us," Riveiro said.
"We're gonna play probably one of the best teams, not only in the country, so we know the complexity of the task but we will prepare ourselves to do a good job and let's see," the Spanish coach added.