Komphela - Elapsing of concentration cost us

Steve ''Englishman'' Komphela was delighted with the performance of his boys in a 1-0 defeat against Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium. Maritzburg United came with a proper game plan to frustrate Pirates from playing its normal game comprised of effective wing play and build up from the back.

In the first half Pirates failed to break through the solid defensive wall of United, but Vladimir Vermezovic’s tactical change in the second half made the difference towards the end of the game.

Komphela believes the strong defensive method against Pirates is a good message to his boys going into their Friday game against Ajax Cape Town.

“Defensively we were well organised, we suffered from elapsing of concentration after we left an area uncovered, but above all I think I should be happy with the performance. I am sure going into the dressing room as you them seated there is a feeling that says we could have done better. There is a possibility this is a good message into the next match.”

Komphela was not impressed with his strikers in front of goal despite that few chances were created in the first half but in the second half, we witnessed a very improved performance upfront with many chances created but not converted.

“When we came out you could see the indicators of a team that is threatening but we were not clinical in front of goals.”

Despite losing against Pirates, United is automatically out of the relegation zone and also 10 points away from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) promotional play-offs at the end of the season. A win against Ajax will guarantee The Team of Choice a PSL status for the next season.

By Owen Mundalamo