Siwelele coach Lehlohonolo Seema has expressed his delight at the impact of the young players who the club have promoted up from their DStv Diski Challenge team and their quick adaptation to the rigours of top-flight football.
The Bloemfontein-based club drew 0-0 away at Lamontville Golden Arrows in Durban on Friday after handing full debuts to two players and bringing on another newcomer as a late substitute.
It was a first outing in the starting line-up for right back Kabelo Lekalakala and right-sided attacker Sphesihle Jeza.
The match also featured the 19-year-old Bohlale Ngwato on the wing in only his third start.
Manelis Mazibuko, who was named man of the match for his midfield performance, was making only his second start in the Betway Premiership. He is also 19 years old.
The South African under-20 international, Lazola Maku came on as a late substitute for his first senior outing.
“You have to commend the club for developing these players. They have trained with the first team this season, so we know what they are capable of,” Seema added.
“I just hope that we will be able to hold onto them for next season,” the coach added.
Siwelele’s away draw on Friday lifted them further away from the relegation zone as they stayed in 11th place with 29 points and five matches left in the season.
They are next at home to Kaizer Chiefs at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Wednesday (live on SuperSport).