He said on iDiski Times: "We had to go to extra-time and we completely changed the plan quickly with my staff, trying to find space on the sides, so we brought some pace on the sides, who were able to make the difference and bring crosses.

"We brought in Mabasa, we know him as a player in the box, he's not someone to make all the pressing like Makgopa, it's a kind of player that needs to be served by good players.

"So we decided to bring Moremi, Appollis and it worked [to get the win] and it doesn't mean I am a better coach than two months ago, I think maybe I'm still a plumber or carpenter for many people, I don't think myself better than Steve Barker.

"I have huge respect for the coach, a very good coach and a very interesting team of Stellenbosch, it's a very stable, professional club for a long time and we're happy to have won this trophy."

Pirates are next in action in the first preliminary round of the Champions League against Lioli FC on Saturday.

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Chiefs bolstered their ranks with several new signings during the off-season, but that has created fierce competition for places, leaving some players struggling for game time.

Defender Happy Mashiane and striker Tashreeq Morris are among those who could be loaned out or sold in the coming weeks, with the striker having already been pursued by Durban City FC.

Speaking to the media, the Chiefs coach acknowledged that the club's current squad is too large to manage effectively.

"It is true the squad is big. The technical staff and management, through the sporting director Kaizer Jnr, are working on options to offload some players in the squad," said Nabi at Naturena on Monday.

"We want to give possibilities to players who have not had enough playing time, especially young players who need PSL experience. Everyone is aware of that, and we are working around the clock."

Chiefs return to action on Tuesday night when they host Sekhukhune United in a crucial Betway Premiership clash at FNB Sta

Makhehlene Makhaula chuffed to be at Orlando Pirates