Siwelele coach Lehlohonolo Seema has praised Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi after his long-range goal, which saw his side take a lead in their Carling Knockout Cup encounter at Orlando Stadium over the weekend. 

With the game seemingly heading for extra time at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, Mbokazi won possession inside his own half and surged forward before unleashing a thunderous strike that left Siwelele goalkeeper Samkelo Xulu rooted to the spot as the ball nestled into the net.

“For him, it looks like he’s a grounded boy, and he works hard, he knows his strengths, and is one captain that you don’t see him talking much, but you see him whenever he’s needed,” said Seema. 

Seema also opened up on his side’s goals and ambitions for the season. 

“Do you still remember the first round [after we beat Golden Arrows], we were on top of the log?” said Seema. 

“I’m not joking, 15 teams were below us, at some stage, 15 teams were below us now. So, we have tasted both,” added Seema. 

Mbokazi’s strike has obliged Siwelele to focus on their league campaign for now, as they currently sit 12th on seven points, heading into the October international break. 

“So, we have tasted both there and there, and now we are fighting to do what? To stay here in the middle,” added the Lesotho-born tactician, who captained Pirates during his playing days.   

The Betway Premiership newcomers will be hoping to have done enough to preserve their status come the end of the season. 

The Premiership newcomers will aim to consolidate their league status when they resume their campaign with a visit to Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on 22 October.