Tinkler praises his Pirates

Cape Town - Eric Tinkler has applauded his troops after overcoming a tough test against Kaizer Chiefs to win the Carling Black Label Cup at the FNB Stadium on Saturday. 

As it happened: Orlando Pirates v Kaizer Chiefs

Pirates won 4-3 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 in regulation time.

The Pirates coach however bemoaned injuries and fatigue to his players due to a busy schedule that also included the CAF Confederations’ Cup.

“First of all we should applaud the organiser of this match for the great initiative and also thank the supporters for the fantastic atmosphere,” Tinkler said.

“We started well in the first half. Chiefs came back in the second half, but my guys held their nerve and I’m happy we prevailed.”

Tinkler said fatigue and injuries were the main worries for his team.

“Fatigue is a serious problem. Matlama, Mahamutsa, Erasmus and Gabuza have all picked injuries which is a major concern heading into the CAF games,” said Tinkler.

“But we are happy at the same time to have Gyimah who is a versatile and experienced player. His experience will pay off in the CAF games.”

“We will assess the squad after Monday's session and we will choose a squad for the MTN8 thereafter,” he said.