Tsepo Masilela described making his debut for Kaizer Chiefs in an emphatic win against Moroka Swallows as a ‘fantastic feeling’.

The highly rated left back who won the league twice with Maccabi Haifa in Israel replaced Keegan Ritchie in the 87th minute as the Glamour Boys searched for a winner.

“The Coach told me midway second half to prepare myself. It was a fantastic feeling to finally make my debut for the Club.

“I have been working hard in training in the past couple of months but it was of course difficult for me to catch up with the guys who did a preseason camp and have been playing well ever since. I do not think my match fitness is going to be at a level I want because I played a few minutes against Swallows.

“It is difficult to get to that level in the absence of a reserve league and friendly matches due to the tight programme. I have received a lot of support from the Conditioning Coach (Josh Smith), the whole Technical Team and my teammates. I have no doubt with this kind of support I will be back at my best again.

Masilela speaking to kaizerchiefs.com at Club’s HQ in Naturena lauded the team’s spirit and attitude; “The two are ingredients of success in the championship. I can draw similarities between Maccabi and the current Chiefs team. We are united, we play for one another and the attitude of the players is top class.

“We all respect the badge, the Coach and the supporters. The guys who are not featuring regularly for instance, this morning were training and no one is complaining. Those who are not playing are supporting those who are playing.

Masilela was also delighted to make a winning debut for the Club; “It was a special win and credit to all the guys for the effort. It was not about any individual but the team. We were all excited after the game but we all know that the journey is going to be tougher.

We need to prepare ourselves both mentally and physically as all the teams will be coming up against us looking to be the first to beat us. We need to focus and stick to our game plan,” added Masilela.