Unathi Mabena proud of team effort despite opening defeat to Sundowns

The highly anticipated clash between the two rivals drew a packed crowd at Tsakane Stadium in Ekurhuleni on Sunday afternoon, as Amakhosikazi made history by playing their first official match in club colours.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mabena admitted her side gave Sundowns too much space but was encouraged by the overall performance and support from the fans.

“I think the players were trying to see how the opposition would push us. We now have to go back to the drawing board, correct our mistakes and prepare for the next fixture. I think we gave Sundowns too much respect, we allowed them space and got punished.

“But other than that, I am happy with the performance and thankful to the fans who came out in numbers to witness the club making history with our ladies playing their first match today,” said Mabena.

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The Glamour Girls currently sit 13th on the league table, behind Vaal North West University. 

Mabena says the defeat served as an important lesson ahead of their next encounter against JVW.

“We will have to review this match and take note of our mistakes. I think this game served as a wake-up call, which will help us as we prepare for our next fixture against JVW,” added Mabena.

The 46-year-old mentor also believes the team combinations will improve with time as the squad continues to build chemistry.

“We picked up a couple of injuries and knocks from this game, so we need to make sure the players recover well. I am happy with what they brought performance-wise. The combinations are coming together - we just need to fix a few things for the players to build better synergy,” she expressed.