TS Galaxy coach Owen da Gama has praised his players following their 1-0 win over Orlando Pirates in a DStv Premiership encounter at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit on Sunday.
A third minute goal scored by Masilakhe Phohlongo secured much-needed three points for the Rockets.
“We worked very hard after our defeat to Golden Arrows. It was a good day at the office. We have had a lot of injuries. We have had a lot of situations. It’s a blessing in disguise because the youngsters have come through,” Da Gama said.
“It’s just a delight to me to see youngsters coming through and that’s where I thrive on. I like youngsters to come through.”
Even though he has praised his players, Da Gama still believe that Buccaneers are formidable opponents.
“Pirates, you gotta give credit to them. They are a fantastic team with a very, very good coach. But I believe this is where stars are created. Stars are born when you play (Kaizer) Chiefs, Pirates and (Mamelodi) Sundowns,” he said.
“I’m happy that the boys had the confidence to be able to come out. Phohlongo, it’s his second goal against Pirates this season. In his debut game he scored against them.”
The former Highlands Park and Platinum Stars mentor added that they got it right during the match.
“From a tactical perspective, I think we got it spot on. People were expecting a back three, we played with a back four. I think we got it on as a technical team,” Da Gama remarked.
“It’s still work in progress. We came in, we tried to change things around. Playing against a quality team like Orlando Pirates it’s really encouraging to know we are on the right track.”
Meanwhile, Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer admitted that they failed to use their chances thus they lost the game.
“All opponents are motivated against us. If you are not in the game then you have no chance to win,” the German said.
“In the second half, we had a chance for an equaliser. If you don’t score, it’s not possible to win the game or get a draw. The performance was not enough to get three points.”
