Stuart Baxter paid tribute to his players despite the 5-4 loss on penalties against Orlando Pirates in the Carling Black Label Cup which took place in front of a packed Soccer City Complex on Saturday evening.

Amakhosi took an early lead through a well taken strike by rejuvenated Abia Nale but Orlando Pirates equalised following referee Daniel Bennet’ six minutes optional time.

“The players gave a very good account of themselves. We had the likes of Tefo Mashamaite who came in a place for Tower Mathoho for instance but settled and did well. I am pleased with their progress and I think we can build from this ahead of the season opener against Mamelodi Sundowns,” said Baxter speaking to kaizerchiefs.com.

The Glamour Boys of Phefeni inspired by the gold and black supporters who filled the stadium showed glimpses of brilliance and sent signals of what is in store going into the season proper. Abia Nale who was one of the outstanding players had a solid game so was Morgan Gould. The team played in unison and attacked with flair and speed.

“There will always be areas of improvement and I think we can learn a lot to what happened against Orlando Pirates.”

Baxter added: “On all the tests the players have undergone they have come out tops. As the Technical Team we are happy with the level of fitness of the players.”

The supporters voted for both goalkeepers who had earned the highest votes for their respective sides to come out during the start of the second half; “It is part of the rules of the competition for supporters to substitute the player they want and there was nothing we could do.”

“Arthur (Bartman) also did well when he came in and it would have been interesting to see how the first choice goalkeepers would have coped with the penalties. I would like to congratulate Orlando Pirates on their victory and wish them all the best throughout the season,” added visibly confident Baxter.