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Cape Town - Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo says he is happy with his performance despite conceding two goals as the Soweto giants crashed out of the Telkom Knockout competition.
The 23-year-old was playing his first match this season when the Buccaneers were defeated 2-0 by SuperSport United at the wet Orlando Stadium, having been called on to replace the late Senzo Meyiwa.
He admitted it took time to adjust to the pace of the match, but maintained that he was pleased with his contribution, despite being beaten by Lebohang Manyama and Dove Wome.
"It was overwhelming, it wasn't easy, it was never going to be easy, but I had to be strong and focus for the benefit of the team," Mhlongo said after the match.
"The first half was a bit difficult for me, it was raining and the ball was wet and difficult to handle.
"Playing your first game in the first team, I soon realised that the pace and intensity of the game is much quicker than in the friendly games I've played so far.
"The second half I believe I did it better, I was more comfortable with the pace and intensity of the game after the break. But overall, I think I did well today although there's always room for improvement," he added.
Mhlongo came through the Pirates youth ranks and has climbed up from third choice at the club, having been behind the likes of Moeneeb Josephs, Fatau Dauda and the late Senzo Meyiwa in his three years with the first team.
The 23-year-old was playing his first match this season when the Buccaneers were defeated 2-0 by SuperSport United at the wet Orlando Stadium, having been called on to replace the late Senzo Meyiwa.
He admitted it took time to adjust to the pace of the match, but maintained that he was pleased with his contribution, despite being beaten by Lebohang Manyama and Dove Wome.
"It was overwhelming, it wasn't easy, it was never going to be easy, but I had to be strong and focus for the benefit of the team," Mhlongo said after the match.
"The first half was a bit difficult for me, it was raining and the ball was wet and difficult to handle.
"Playing your first game in the first team, I soon realised that the pace and intensity of the game is much quicker than in the friendly games I've played so far.
"The second half I believe I did it better, I was more comfortable with the pace and intensity of the game after the break. But overall, I think I did well today although there's always room for improvement," he added.
Mhlongo came through the Pirates youth ranks and has climbed up from third choice at the club, having been behind the likes of Moeneeb Josephs, Fatau Dauda and the late Senzo Meyiwa in his three years with the first team.
