Happy Jele scored the decisive goal just before the hour-mark in a scrappy game thanks to a very poor and bumpy surface at Denis Sassou Nguesso Stadium.
MATCH REPORT: Bucs snatch the points in Dolisie
Nevertheless, Pirates overcame the hurdle and managed to keep Leopards at Bay while snatching the points thanks to Jele’s opportunistic low volley.
“We knew this was going to be a difficult match, we played Leopards in the CAF Champions League and lost there,” Tinkler said at the post match conference.
“The conditions of the pitch were also of concern to us because it doesn't suit our style of play, which is knocking the ball.
“Credit must be given to the Pirates players, they kept their defensive lines, shape and composure. They were disciplined. We were disciplined defensively and everybody played their part, so I am very happy with our players.
“I would have been happy to get a point here but the players did well to follow instructions and steal a win against a great side.
“It was vitally important that we start the group stages well and our will to win pulled us through a difficult encounter today.”
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