Head coach John Maduka has explained the crucial role of experienced defender Happy Jele following Royal AM's 1-1 draw against Orlando Pirates.
Thwihli Thwahla needed an injury time equaliser by Menzi Masuku to salvage an important point away from home against a Pirates side that prior to the fixture, was on a seven-game winning streak after an own goal by Elias Pelembe had put the Buccaneers ahead.
The match saw the return to action of former Pirates defender Happy Jele for only his third match in a Royal AM shirt and for the first time since being stretched off due to injury against Kaizer Chiefs last month.
"You need players that have got the experience and us introducing Happy [was because] he is a leader. In the field of play he organises ,he doesn't just play, but also organises the other players to make sure they are in good positions," Maduka said.
"It gives confidence. The young [Mlungisi] Sikakane playing alongside Happy, it's a good thing for him. It gives him confidence to do well."
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Another veteran who has been crucial for Maduka's side this season is 39-year-old Pelembe who has contributed two goals and an assist in the last three four matches
"Having guys like Pelembe -like you said - Pelembe has been doing well and very consistent and one of the good things about experienced players is that when they play, they are very consistent," added Maduka.
"So it's good for us to have players that are consistent. We just need to start introducing the young players so that they can benefit a lot form this, from the good [experienced. players that we have."
The draw against Pirates means Royal AM keep their place in the top eight on the DStv Premiership log table and will have their next chance to climb further up when they host Swallows on Saturday.
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