Maritzburg United midfielder and captain Michael Morton admitted it was a tough night against Orlando Pirates, but felt his side were a little unlucky to lose 1-0 on Tuesday night.

A Helder Pelembe goal three minutes from time stole victory for the Buccaneers and undid all Maritzburg’s hard defensive work.

Morton was handed the ‘Man of the Match’ award for his steely effort in the heart of the Maritzburg midfield, and while praising his side’s own defensive performance commended Pirates’ as well.

“It was difficult,” said Morton.

“They (Pirates) pinned us back in our half for the majority of the game, so getting out was difficult and so was trying to add numbers (up front).

“I thought defensively we were great tonight, just one defensive lapse let us down.

“The boys put in a massive shift and we were just unlucky to concede at the end.

“There is tons of character in this squad and we keep on pushing to the end.

“We were unlucky, but we will keep on going.”