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Cape Town - Former Orlando Pirates captain Edward Motale has urged the Buccaneers defence to protect new goalkeeper Joris Delle.
Delle, who was signed before the start of the season, came in for some criticism after the Soweto giants let in four goals in the 4-2 defeat against Bidvest Wits on Saturday.
Motale, a commanding defender in his playing days, has spoken up for the French-born shot-stopper, saying the players in front of him need to do their job properly.
"I think the keeper is okay, I believe that before a team scores a goal there are bodies that are assigned to close that striker but when a striker finds a path to score, then we can't blame the keeper," Motale told Goal.
"A number of shots were taken in front of the defence and I don't know whether it was a question of not having a structure or not. The only concern was the set-piece but any keeper can concede from such situations. However, I think he should have organized his wall better.
"After conceding the free-kick early after kick-off, we saw the boys coming out to play and fight for the points. It was pleasing to see that they are hungry and dedicated to fight for each other.
"They were just unfortunate to lose that game but I am proud because they lost as fighters. Pirates need to look forward and challenge for the title, but they must work hard at the back."
Pirates will need to sort out their defensive errors before they take on Cape Town City on September 28.
- TeamTalk Media
