TS Galaxy’s interim coach, Bernard Parker, has maintained a modest demeanor following his team’s impressive strategy that surprised Mamelodi Sundowns.
The KwaMhlanga outfit delivered one of the season’s most significant upsets in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday evening.
In a remarkable outing at Mbombela Stadium, the Rockets triumphed over Sundowns with a score of 3-2, thereby shaking up the title race.
Goals from Victor Letsoalo, Sedwyn George, and Mpho Mvelase contributed to this celebrated win for the Mpumalanga side. Despite Brayan León securing two goals, Sundowns fell short of a comeback.
This outcome may severely impact Masandawana’s bid for the league title, as Orlando Pirates now require only one win from their remaining two matches to claim the championship after a 14-year wait.
In his post-match comments, Parker noted that Galaxy intentionally aimed to exploit Sundowns’ aggressive high defensive line.
“We already had an advantage because of the psychological factor we have over them,” Parker stated.
The former Bafana Bafana forward described how his team focused on speed and counter-attacking tactics, particularly leveraging the skills of the quick winger Seluleko Mahlambi.
“We have been practicing on how they keep a high line,” Parker shared. “For us, it was to make sure we attack the space they leave behind.”
Parker commended his players for their discipline and adherence to the strategic plan throughout the match.
“Football doesn’t have answers, but solutions,” he remarked. “The game plan was spot on in terms of us playing according to our strengths.”
Notably, this victory marks the second time this season that Galaxy has bested Sundowns, having previously eliminated them from the Nedbank Cup with a 2-0 win.
With the title race now tilted in favor of the Pirates, Parker’s Galaxy appears to have significantly influenced the season’s outcome.
