Da Gama backs Mokwena to steer Pirates ship

Cape Town - Highlands Park mentor Owen da Gama has backed Rulani Mokwena to succeed as Orlando Pirates head coach.

Mokwena, who was the assistant to Micho Sredojevic, was thrown in at the deep end when the Serbian quit his post last Friday, only three games into the new season.

Even though Da Gama's side knocked Pirates out of the MTN8 on Saturday in what was Mokwena's first game in charge, the Lions of North coach said his younger compatriot understand the dynamics of the Soweto giants.

Da Gama said: "I think that Rhulani is capable enough to steer the ship. There is still a bit of continuity in that regard. He understands the dynamics.

"He understands how the family at Orlando Pirates works."

Da Gama added: "He is very capable of making great success of Orlando Pirates.

"The only thing that I can say to him, take it! I believe that he can do it, and he will do it.

"The only thing that he must do is do what he does best."

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane has also given his approval for Mokwena to take on the huge job at Pirates.

Mokwena previously worked on the technical staff under Mosimane at Masandawana.