Pirates' Ouaddou backs young talent

ABDESLAM Ouaddou is a fearless players' coach. As long as a player is good enough to fit into his philosophy and team organisation, he will throw him in the deep end.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Ouaddou showed that he has nerves of steel during the 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership on Saturday afternoon in Tshwane. He started teenager Camren Dansin in midfield - an approach that initially appeared risky, as the youngster struggled against Sundowns' experienced kingpins, including Bathusi Aubaas and Nuno Santos.

Tension reached fever pitch when some Pirates players, particularly Tshepang Moremi, began shouting at the 19-year-old, prompting the Ghost to call for his substitution in only his second start for the club this season.

So, when Peter Shalulile gave Sundowns the lead, it seemed that Dansin's struggles had contributed to the hosts' advantage.

But the teenager had the perfect response for his critics. He struck a first-time volley with his weaker left foot that crashed off the underside of the crossbar, beating Africa's No. 1, Ronwen Williams, hands down.