After finally making his highly anticipated debut for Orlando Pirates, Sebastien Pedersen has convinced coach Abdeslam Ouaddou that he can help the team going forward, as he is the type of striker who suits their system.
Pedersen made his first appearance and cameo for Pirates when they defeated Sekhukhune United 1–0 in the MTN8 semi-final first leg at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday night.
The 27-year-old could have opened his account later in the match, but he ballooned his half-chance into the stands, although he showed some promising runs on and off the ball.
Expected to turn chances into goals –
Expected to turn chances into goals – and take some pressure off the team’s leading marksman Yanela Mbuthuma, who has been shooting blanks in recent months – Ouaddou was impressed with the Norwegian’s impact on the match.
“He’s clever. He’s getting into the space where we want to find him,” said Ouaddou during the post-match press conference. “He’s able to fight. We are able to find him in the pockets. His technical quality is also very interesting. I am sure that he’s going to really help the team.”
Ouaddou has stressed in recent weeks that Pedersen was not getting an opportunity because of his match-fitness level. While he maintains that, he expects him to quickly find his feet and hit the ground running in the PSL top flight, which is one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
Every league has its own specificity, replied Ouaddou
“Every league has its own specificity,” replied Ouaddou when asked whether it was right to introduce Pedersen on a small-sized pitch and against one of the most compact and disciplined teams in the league.
“You don’t have to think that just because you come from Europe, it will be easy. The PSL is a good environment. There’s speed, impact and organised speed. The level is high. I am sure that he’ll integrate quickly.”
Source: dailynews.co.za
