Pupuma says Orlando Pirates defeat gave Milford belief for Betway Premiership challenge

Milford FC coach Xanti Pupuma says their 2-0 defeat by defending champions Orlando Pirates in their Betway Premiership opener gave the league newcomers the confidence to compete in the top flight.

The Stallions were beaten at the Orlando Amstel Arena, but Pupuma was encouraged by a performance in which Milford controlled possession for long periods.

That display has been followed by three wins, two draws and two defeats in their opening seven matches. Milford are fifth in the standings with 11 points.

“More than anything, I would say the first game against Orlando Pirates gave us the confidence and the belief that we can actually compete in the division,” said Pupuma.

“I mean, we played against the league champs and we showed up. We dominated the ball and we gave them a headache and they were stressed. Then we just built everything on that.”

Pupuma believes the understanding within his squad has also helped Milford adapt quickly to life in the division.

He said many of the players have been together for a considerable period and are familiar with his methods, having now worked with him for a second full season after previously spending only half-seasons together.

“Fortunately for me, these boys have been together. They would do anything for each other. For a long time, it’s easy to coach them,” he said.

“It’s very easy for them to understand me. This is now the second full season with them. We’ve had half-seasons before, so they know what I want, how I want us to play.”

The Milford coach added that the team’s training programme has prepared them to deal with the demands of matches at this level.

“The sessions that we do with them during training, they prepare for these kinds of situations,” Pupuma said.

He also praised the young players who have been given opportunities in the men’s team, saying their performances had been a particular source of satisfaction.

“For them to come and show up, I mean, I don’t know how many men of the men’s team they’ve been getting. And it’s all these youngsters, which makes me very, very happy.”