John Maduka after Orlando Pirates game
Magesi FC coach John Maduka is not disappointed with the club's performance despite their cup exit. Speaking to SABC Sport, Maduka said, "We had those moments in the game. I think the game itself, we started the game well; we knew that it was going to be an open game. We knew that they would take the game to us. We managed to absorb pressure and also, at the same time, we had a couple of good chances."
"If we were sharp enough, it would have been something else. In the first half, it was very, very difficult to absorb the pressure. They pushed us backward, but we managed to survive; we also had chances. In the second half, we said, let's try to mark from defense. Immediately, we brought them into our half; they were very dangerous; they could take shots; you can see the goal they scored, it's a very good goal."
"With no pressure, he (Moremi) took the shot; it was very difficult for Chipezeze to save that one. I'm very happy with the performance of the boys; they applied themselves in not an easy game, a very difficult game, a very open game. We had our chances; they also had their chances. So, I am happy with the way the boys played, but not with the results."
Magesi FC goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze won the man of the match award for the sixth consecutive time in the Carling Black Label Knockout Cup. In total, Chipezeze has collected R600K since last season. Chipezeze said, "I'd like to say thank you very much to the fans, and they came in numbers. This is what we want in South African Football: to come in numbers regardless of who we are. The support that they are giving us is incredible.
" Coming into the game, we know that it's gonna be difficult today because they are coming from the setback in the Champions League. We executed the game plan very well, but at that moment of brilliance in the second half, credit to the boys for the work they put in today. Hard luck, we will lift up our eyes high as we've been doing well in this competition. Unfortunately, it comes to an end. Congratulations to Orlando Pirates, we wish them well in the next round.
" During the week, we had been working hard, coming into this game. We knew we were going to suffer. Remember this is our second year in the premiership ".