So here is the toss-up we face in South African football – do we want to see winning soccer, or do we want to see beautiful soccer? Of course, if possible, any supporter would choose to see both, but sometimes they come with contrasting philosophies and coaches. So what do the Pirates supporters want? Something in between Kosta Papic and Gavin Hunt?
Pirates supporters find themselves in a conundrum. They are tired of their team underperforming, and the Nedbank Cup final loss to SuperSport United was a heavy blow to the gut. This has resulted in many calling for the services of proven winning coaches such as Gavin Hunt or Stephen Keshi.
However, a lot of supporters have also said they will not accept results that come at the expense of ugly football – they long for the era of Papic.
"Yes, we do need those cups and everything, but the question is: are we going to the stadiums if we play boring football?" – Big N
"I don't think Gavin Hunt's style of coaching can fit Pirates." – gerrard868
"The man to lead us is Kosta Papic – that would bring exciting times for Pirates and Ndoro will be there to finish." – tee'buc
"Yes, Hunt can win, but not the way Pirates supporters wanna see. Papic plays beautiful football with no results." – Ntsunda11
"Kosta is the only coach who was loved and adored by fans, and he won nothing.” – Muzik
So, there's the dilemma… Do you want to watch a beautiful sunset or would you rather stay warm inside? Do you want to see football that is art or one that is science? It seems Pirates' supporters, and those of other clubs in South Africa, can stand losing; it is painful but it is manageable. What a South African supporter cannot ever stand for is ugly football. During the Kosta era, Orlando Stadium was packed to the rafters on most days, yet the results weren't there… The supporters were still happy.
Do you prefer winning football, or flair football? Would Papic be welcomed back with open arms at Pirates?