Orlando Pirates begin MTN8 title defence against Durban City
Orlando Pirates begin the defence of their MTN8 title with a home match against last season's Nedbank Cup winners Durban City.
Durban City captain clears air over 'Pirates is just a name' remark ahead of MTN8 clash
The experienced defender revisited the controversial statement ahead of Durban City's MTN8 quarter-final clash against Pirates at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, explaining that his words had been taken out of context.
Ncanana's original remark came after Durban City's goalless draw against Pirates last season and quickly attracted criticism from the Soweto giants' supporters.
The comment even found its way into one of the club's documentary episodes, where Pirates director of football Mpumi Khoza weighed in on the matter.
Speaking during the MTN8 launch in Randburg on Wednesday, Ncanana sought to end the controversy once and for all.
"What I can say is that maybe they misinterpreted my statement. Not that I was being disrespectful or I have something against Pirates, no," said Ncanana.
The Durban City skipper stressed that he fully appreciates Pirates' stature in South African football but believes reputations count for little once the match gets underway.
"We all know Pirates is a big club in South African football. What I can say is once the referee blows the first whistle it's 11 versus 11. It is no longer about Pirates or us. What I was just trying to say is that we have to be strong."
Ncanana's clarification comes just days before Durban City face one of their toughest assignments of the season as they look to upset the defending MTN8 champions on their home turf.
Nkosinathi Sibisi confident Orlando Pirates can win fifth consecutive MTN8
Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi says they are determined to make history by lifting the MTN8 trophy for a fifth consecutive season as they begin their title defence against Durban City this weekend.
Tshegofatso Mabasa reflects on Orlando Pirates snub: "It was a very confusing period for me"
Former Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa admits he struggled to understand why he was sidelined by head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou last season.
Orlando Pirates apologize, confirm refunds for locked-out fans after Saturday's drama
Orlando Pirates has issued an apology to supporters affected by the closure of the stadium gates during the 2-0 victory against Milford at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.