Gavin Lane hails ‘menace’ Marcelo Allende after MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates legend Gavin Lane praised Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Marcelo Allende after watching him control Saturday’s MTN8 Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Allende was central to Sundowns’ 2-0 victory, producing a disciplined performance as his side overcame Pirates and secured the trophy.

The midfielder dominated his contest with Pirates’ Thalente Mbatha, covering ground effectively and helping Sundowns maintain control of possession. He also combined well with his team-mates to limit the opportunities available to the Pirates players.

Lane attended the final with his eldest son and said watching the match from inside the stadium gave him a different perspective from viewing it on television.

“It was very nice watching such a big final at the stadium, I took my eldest son with me, you know watching football at the stadium the game is quick and faster, but when you watching on TV the game is slower,” Lane told KickOff.

“When you watching live the guys knock the ball around well and faster. It was a nice game to watch, when they were 1-0 down Pirates players started attacking and pushing for an equaliser.”

Pirates increased the pressure after falling behind and had opportunities to change the course of the match. However, Lane was particularly impressed by Allende’s movement and influence in midfield.

“It was nice to watch some live football again, we had some chances again but eish that little midfielder of Sundowns, Allende, yesses he’s good,” he said.

“He was everywhere around that park. I said to my son, look at that little guy, look where he is, he is here then he is there, then is over here again. He is all over the the place that little guy. He is a menace.”

Lane also felt the game might have taken a different direction had Pirates converted their penalty.

“But I believe if Pirates scored their penalty the game could have changed completely,” he said.

Despite that missed opportunity, Lane said Sundowns were worthy winners and enjoyed the contest.

“At the end of the day Sundowns deserved their win. The match was nice and entertaining, enjoyed watching it.”