Mokwena: Chaine made a difference for Pirates

Mokwena: Chaine made a difference for Pirates

Orlando Pirates fans were anxious seeing goalkeeper Sipho Chaine get a lot more of the ball during their DStv Premiership clash against Mamelodi Sundowns, but the approach has been praised by opposition coach Rulani Mokwena.

The Downs mentor argued that the goal minder gave the Buccaneers a bit of an edge in a match they eventually won 1-0 on Saturday.

Chaine, signed from Chippa United at the start of the season, proved to be immense according to Mokwena.

"I think Chaine makes a big difference in the profile of Pirates. I understand the anxiety that comes a little bit because it's not normal. But that was the biggest difference today, it gave them very good build up possibilities," he said.

Mokwena is best placed to comment on Chaine’s influence considering Sundowns also use their goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to build-up play.

Pirates did the same.

"They could build from the back. I thought Chaine made an incredible difference if you compare to all the other games. But I also thought Ronwen was incredible today to be honest. I never single out individuals because it's always a collective effort but I thought Ronwen was superb today," he added.

The Downs coach went as far as suggesting this was a good development for Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who was in the stands watching Chaine and Williams. 

"So, if you look at the two goalkeepers, I thought they were magnificent and this is good for South African football," he concluded.