Orlando Pirates’ team selection has come under the microscope again after coach Rhulani Mokwena rung the changes against Stellenbosch at the weekend.
Pirates edged Stellenbosch 1-0 in their first round Telkom Knockout clash at Orlando Stadium, after six changes were made from their 3-3 draw against Cape Town City.
READ: Rhulani's second win just 'one swallow'
It was Pirates second win under coach Mokwena, who took the reins following Milutin Sredojevic departure back in August, and one notable difference from recent clashes was the decision to bring back goalkeeper Wayne Sandilands in place of Joris Delle.
Other changes saw Paseka Mako come in for left-back Innocent Maela, Ntsikelelo Nyauza for Alfred Ndengane, Linda Mntambo for Musa Nyatama, Vincent Pule for Kabelo Dlamini and Augustine Mulenga for Xola Mlambo.
Asked whether the selection would now remain consistent given the positive outcome of the match, the former Bucs assistant outlined the criteria which will remain unchanged for all their games to come.
READ: Top striker reveals two failed Bucs moves
“With regards to our selection, we have certain criteria that we use with selecting players – not just Wayne Sandilands – but obviously one being form and the other meritocracy,” explained Mokwena.
“Whoever deserves to play based on what we see at training will play, and that’s how it is at Pirates.
“We take it one game at a time – be it a cup or a league match, and we try to put the best team on the pitch for that match.”
SMS: Get the latest Orlando Pirates news sent to your phone!
