Stellenbosch FC winger Devin Titus has acknowledged the magnitude of tonight’s Betway Premiership clash against Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium, insisting that his side is fully focused on delivering another strong performance despite the Buccaneers’ rocky start to the season.
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Speaking to the Siya crew ahead of the match, Titus underlined the challenge that awaits his side against the Soweto giants, fresh from their MTN8 triumph.
“You know, it’s a big game for us. We’ve just come off of winning in the cup, but that is the cup and this is the league. Playing against Pirates is never easy. We always try our best to tactically outmanoeuvre them or just be a step ahead of them. With the new coach coming in now, it’s a bit of a different ball game, but as far as I can say, the boys are ready to go and do the job.”
With Pirates having collected just one win from their opening four fixtures, many believe Stellenbosch are facing them at the right time. Titus, however, is cautious.
“I don’t think it’s the ideal time,” he explained. “They say an animal that is wounded is the most dangerous animal. So I wouldn’t say it’s a better time to play them now. Any time to play any team is the right time for us. It depends on what we do on the matchday and how we prepare.”
Titus also admitted the allure of facing South Africa’s biggest clubs, but emphasised the bigger picture.
“A lot of football players love playing against big teams because there are bigger crowds and it’s on TV. But for me, it’s another team in the league. We’re fighting to take their spot from last season, which was second, and eventually go to first.”
The winger will also come up against familiar faces, including Sihle Nduli and Deano Van Rooyen.
“I don’t like playing against my friends,” Titus admitted. “With Deano, we’ve always had a very good understanding. Playing against him will be tough because he knows what I can do, and I know what he can do. But at the end of the day, it’s about the team. If we get a positive result, even if I play average, I’m happy, because for me it’s more about the team than individuals.”
Kick-off at Orlando Stadium is scheduled for 19h30.
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