Hotto: We need to be on our toes against Stellies

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Deon Hotto of Orlando Pirates during the Betway Premiership 2024/25 match between Richards Bay and Orlando Pirates at King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban on 29 September 2024 ©Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates midfielder Deon Hotto has stated that his side needs to “be on their toes” when they face Stellenbosch FC in the final of the MTN8.

The Buccaneers are set to take on Stellies for the top eight title when the two sides meet at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday evening.

Pirates made their way to the final after they claimed a 3-1 aggregate victory over Cape Town City in the two-legged semi-final.

Stellies, meanwhile, secured their passage to the final two following their 2-0 aggregate win over Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals.

Hotto is expecting a “very difficult” encounter if they want to make history and snatch the title from Stellies.

“For us, to win we will need to be focused and move together as a team,” Hotto told the media.

“Stellies are a very difficult team to break you know, and they’ve got speed also.

“We just need to be on our toes and our minds must be on the game because they have a good team.”

He added: “What makes our coach special is that he has transformed the team and given it a different direction.

“He came with his brand of football and (spoke to us about) how he wanted us to play the game. Luckily for us, we understand the assignments from him.

“For us as players, it’s all about everyone playing their part because if we join forces things are going to move as they are under the coach.”