Orlando Pirates newly signed right back Deano Van Rooyen has opened up on making his Orlando Stadium debut in the past week.
The 27-year-old joined the Buccaneers during the current transfer window, signing a three-year contract after his tenure with Stellenbosch FC.
Van Rooyen made his initial appearance for the club in an away match against Jwaneng Galaxy during the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round, held at the Botswana National Stadium.
He subsequently played his first match at home when the Sea Robbers secured a 2-1 victory over Chippa United in their Betway Premiership season opener.
Speaking to the club’s media department, Van Rooyen conveyed his excitement about playing in front of the home supporters. He also urged fans to continue attending home matches in large numbers, as they have been doing recently.
VAN ROOYEN ON PLAYING IN FRONT OF HOME FANS AT ORLANDO
“Firstly, I want to thank the man above for giving me the talent. I am happy to make my debut here at Orlando Stadium it was great feeling. We just can continue from here,” Van Rooyen told Pirates media after the match.
“If your mentality is right, you can achieve anything you want. Obviously, you must start with a win at home. It just boosts the confidence going forward to the next game and for the league going forward.
“[Supporters] played a big part in the game; I feel that they are the twelfth man in the field of play. They encourage us, I am happy for them to come in every week to the game.”
