Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has pointed out one of the major factors that has contributed to Relebohile Mofokeng’s growth at the Buccaneers.
The 19-year-old made his senior debut towards the end of last season and has become one of the key players in the Pirates’ side.
Mofokeng has three goals and five assists in 22 DStv Premiership matches. He also has a goal and an assist in just three matches in the Nedbank Cup.
Not only Rele [Relebohile Mofokeng]. You look at the team, every individual,” Maela told journalists ahead of their Nedbank Cup semi-final clash against Chippa United on Saturday.
“Even the players that are not in the match day squad. The players that are not travelling with the team.”
WHY RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG HAS SETTLED QUICKER AT ORLANDO PIRATES
“It is because of the environment that the team has created for each individual,” added Maela.
“The way we train, plan and set up. It gives us the opportunity to go and perform to the best of our abilities within the game plan.
“So I will have to give credit to how we train, the environment we have within the changing room. How we prepare for matches,” he said.
INNOCENT MAELA LAUDS THE ROLE OF SENIOR PLAYERS IN CREATING A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT AT THE BUCCANEERS
“‘As senior players, we try to guide as best we can and try to help. But I mean, even the youngsters now are taking leadership roles, which is very encouraging to see.
“We say they must continue working hard, they must remain humble and they must continue respecting the game each and every day.”
The Buccaneers will travel to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday for the first semi-final, which will start at 15:00.
RELATED STORY: Ex-coach evaluates Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng’s progress at pro level
