An emotional Brandon Petersen has hit back at his critics following a Man of the Match display against Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby on Sunday.
The 31-year-old goalkeeper produced a string of outstanding saves to earn Kaizer Chiefs a 1-1 draw at the FNB Stadium.
The result edges Amakhosi closer to securing a third-place finish in the Betway Premiership, while the Buccaneers were left to rue a missed opportunity to claim all three points.
“It was never easy,” Petersen said after the derby.
“I was always under the spotlight. There was always criticism and all of that. But for me, my family has played a major role in my support system. That’s why it’s so emotional.”
The Chiefs captain emphasised that his performance was not just personal, but a reflection of those who stood by him during difficult moments.
“This is not just for me; it’s for all of them, everyone who has been behind me, messaging me, the staff, the supporters. Knowing they’re backing me and then being able to deliver a performance like I did today means everything,” he added.
Petersen saves Chiefs in derby
Petersen has now extended his solid record against Pirates, remaining unbeaten in his last two Soweto derbies. He was also between the posts when Amakhosi defeated the Buccaneers 2-1 in Durban in last year’s Nedbank Cup final.
Having accumulated 47 points in 25 matches, Kaizer Chiefs looks set to finish in the top three.