Jose Riveiro calls out Orlando Pirates boo brigade

Mpontshane has been the subject of disdain from a section of Pirates fans this season at Orlando Stadium as boos are often directed at the 36-year-old from the stands.

The Spanish-born coach insists this behaviour is not acceptable, especially considering such is rare when the team play away from home.

“I don't think it's good to not support one of our players when he's just about to go onto the field and replace another player,” said Riveiro.

“It doesn't matter when you are away and the fans start booing you and you get motivated, but it's not nice when you are playing on your home ground. 

“We are talking about a small number of people. Overall, the people that are coming to the stadium are very supportive of our players. Also, when we play in Durban, Cape Town or Polokwane, the support that we get is amazing.”

This attitude towards Mpontshane started when he conceded from a long-range strike in the Soweto Derby loss in November, with a couple more incidents having followed since.

However, Riveiro has lauded the KwaZulu-Natal-born goalkeeper for how he’s been handling the situation.

"I would like to thank our fans, the ones who cannot afford to come to the stadium as well. Bullying is terrible, even in the school, stadium or office,” he added.

“It's not nice, it's something that we should take seriously. I am, however, really happy with Pontshi [Mpontshane], he's very professional in the way he's handling the situation. He's a strong guy.”