Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker says he was impressed with Ally Hussein Msengi after the teenager made his PSL debut against Mamelodi Sundowns over a week ago.
The 18-year-old was given his first start by Barker in the middle of park and did not look out place against the defending champions, who had Andile Jali and Hlompho Kekana in direct opposition to Msengi.
Barker said the Tanzanian can only get better after what was a tough initiation in a game that Stellies went to lose 1-0.
In quotes published on the IOL Sport website, Barker said: “I was pleased with his performance.
“He only just turned 18 and it was his first match at this level.
“The type of opposition and the pressure of playing in front of a good crowd at Athlone Stadium never got to him.
“Yes, he was nervous to start which was understandable, but he grew in stature as the game went on.
“That was also against two of the best midfielders in the country.”
Msengi was also pleased he could make his debut for his new club and said he learned a lot playing against experienced campaigners.
The youngster added: “First, I have to thank coach Steve for trusting and putting me in the starting line-up.
“As for the experience, I learned a lot from a rival side loaded with players who have years of experience.
“As a team, we have our goals. I have mine too, and I have to make sure that I achieve them by giving everything I have.”