Luke Baartman earns Man of the Match award as Chiefs boss praised after first league start

Kaizer Chiefs attacker Luke Baartman thanked Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr for his continued encouragement after marking his first start in the Betway Premiership with the Man of the Match award against Kruger United.

The appearance was only Baartman’s second start for Kaizer Chiefs since he joined from Cape Town Spurs last season, but the 21-year-old made the opportunity count. He played 85 minutes in the victory before being substituted, having made a significant contribution to the team’s performance.

Speaking to SuperSport after the match, Baartman dedicated the award to his grandmother and his community, while also acknowledging the role played by the club’s coach and his team-mates.

“I want to give thanks to the man above,” Baartman told SuperSport after the game.

“I think this one is going straight to my granny, to my community.

“It’s been a tough season, last season for me. I’ve only been playing five games, started the last game.

“I just want to give thanks to the coach for believing in me and trusting me, and thanks to my teammates as well.”

Baartman also explained the significance of his embrace with Motaung Jr at the final whistle. The Chiefs Sporting Director had remained in contact with the attacker during a difficult period last season, when regular first-team opportunities were limited.

“Last season, because I didn’t get a lot of chances to play, he always messaged me when I’m not in the team to keep going, to keep my head up. That’s all.”

The messages helped Baartman maintain his focus while he waited for further opportunities to establish himself at Kaizer Chiefs. His latest start was his first of the current season and gave him the chance to play a more prominent role in the side.

He admitted that the physical demands of the match had left him feeling the effects of his 85-minute outing, but said the encouragement of his team-mates had helped him through the game.

He continued, “It’s my first start for the season. A bit tight in the legs after the running, but thanks to my teammates for pushing me.”

Baartman’s performance came after a limited campaign last season, during which he said he had played only five games. He had started the previous match before being handed his first start of the season against Kruger United.

The Man of the Match recognition provided a personal highlight for Baartman, while his comments underlined the importance of trust from the coaching staff, support from his team-mates and the backing he received from Motaung Jr during his time away from the starting line-up.