Mamelodi Sundowns legend Eric Ramasike has defended head coach Manqoba Mngqithi, urging fans not to blame him for the recent Carling Knockout Cup final loss to Magesi FC.
Ramasike believes Mngqithi fielded a strong team but ultimately, the players on the pitch failed to deliver the desired result.
‘HE FIELDED A STRONG TEAM’
“It was a good game, we started off well,” Ramasike told KickOff.
“The team Manqoba fielded on the day was strong, and I had no doubts about it. We played our game and dominated the first half, even though we only managed to score one goal.”
Despite dominating the first half and taking an early lead, Masandawana couldn't maintain their momentum. Their opponents staged a strong comeback in the second half, turning the game around.
HOW SUNDOWNS LOST THE MATCH IN SECOND HALF
“After they scored the equalizing goal, we started to panic. We lost possession easily and resorted to playing long balls, which ultimately cost us the game. After they equalized, we failed to relax and continue our style of play as we normally do,” he added.
“Even on the second goal, they were caught ball-watching while opponents came in from behind,” he remarked.
“This is something professional players are taught in training: you must be alert. When defending, you need to be aware of both the approaching player and the ball.
“But it's football, and these things can happen to even the best players.”
