The 158th edition of the Soweto Derby ended in a 1-1 draw on Saturday as Thamsanqa Gabuza cancelled out Willard Katsande's first-half opener for Amakhosi at FNB Stadium.
Bucs coach Eric Tinkler brought midfielders Makola and Myeni on just past the hour-mark at the expense of Thandani Ntshumayelo and Lehlohonolo Majoro.
Matlaba said: "First half we didn't play well. Second half we played well. Thamsanqa Gabuza scored that goal, then we came to the party.
"After introducing Mpho Makola and Sifiso Myeni we were able to play, playing one-touch, two-touch, going forward.
"Even Qalinge, he gave us something today. Congratulations to him, he played very well today."