Orlando Pirates DStv Diski Challenge coach Joseph Makhanya has opened up on Azola Matrose’s injury nightmare after he had to go through two operations.
Pirates suffered a 1-0 defeat against title contenders Stellenbosch FC at a packed Idas Valley Sports ground this past weekend.
Duku-Duku’s team seemed to be struggling with the heat in Stellenbosch, which worked in Stellies favour as they are used to the weather.
Former Chippa United winger Matrose made his return to the team a week ago, when Pirates beat Lamontville Golden Arrows and he featured for 45 minutes. He again feature for 45 minutes this past weekend against Stellies.
“If you check with Azola, he is been going through a tough time, he had to do two operations,” Makhanya told iDiski Times.
“We’re trying to make sure that he is getting his minutes so that when the first team needs him he is ready to be there.
“You can see he is still scared because, if you are coming from operation, it starts with your mindset. He had an operation and it was not done properly, he did another operation, so you imagine what he is going through.
“So we trying to assist him by making sure he gets a bit of minutes this side so that he can get back to his best.”
The DDC returns to Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium for another festival this weekend, with some exciting fixtures on Saturday and Sunday.