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Johannesburg - Orlando Pirates coach Eric Tinkler says the team's objective in the second half of the season is to defend their Nedbank Cup title.
"I am more than happy with everything and I cannot wait to unleash my players when the league starts," Tinkler said.
"Playing good football and winning the Nedbank Cup will definitely be welcomed by the supporters hence we are going for the kill this time around."
Pirates are set to open their cup title defence against Second Division outfit, Tornado FC at the Orlando Stadium on February 18.
Tinkler, who was made interim coach two months ago after the departure of Vladimir Vermezovic, said he had spent valuable time with the players during the mid-season break.
"I must praise the spirit and discipline that the players has shown since I took over and the break really gave me a chance to install my philosophies."
With reports linking skipper Oupa Manyisa with Mamelodi Sundowns, Tinkler said it would be a pity to lose such a pivotal player.
"He is a massive influence in the team. He makes the team tick and it would be sad to see him go.
"But I am not the right person to talk about whether he stays or he goes. My duty is to prepare the team and not comment who is coming and leaving."
While there has been no news of new signings, Tinkler was pleased with the players he had at his disposal.
"Chiefs are the favourites to win the league after a good run in the first round but we have an obligation of fighting until the last league match."
"We also have the Confederations Cup and the Nedbank Cup to fight for and that is what we are going to do. Whichever player comes will add quality into the side but so far I am more than happy with the players we have at Pirates."
