Cape Town - Bloemfontein Celtic defender Alfred Ndengane has claimed that he was well-prepared to deal with Thamsanqa Gabuza during Sunday's 1-0 win over Orlando Pirates.
Ndengane picked up the man of the match prize for his performance for Phunya Sele Sele, while Gabuza was unable to capitalise on the starting berth handed to him upfront by Milutin Sredojevic.
"Thank God and my coach for giving me this opportunity. It was tough game -- especially in the second-half, Pirates were coming," Ndengane told SuperSport.
"Gabuza is a tough opponent, but I know him most especially when it's high balls and him using the elbows and stuff, but I managed to hold on."
Celtic have been plagued by off-field issues, as the club has struggled to pay its players and is awaiting takeover pending approval from the Premier Soccer League, but Ndengane has paid tribute to players and fans for remaining united.
"We told ourselves that no matter what's happening outside ... (we keep pushing) and thanks to the supporters and we keep going and be humble," he said.
Celtic sit joint top of the Premiership on points with Bidvest Wits, who they trail only on goals scored, with a game in hand.