Kaizer Chiefs attacker Luke Baartman expressed his gratitude to his coach and teammates following his Man of the Match performance against Kruger United.

The Glamour Boys got their Betway Premiership campaign off to a positive start after claiming a 3-1 victory over the newly-promoted side.

The 20-year-old was named in Amakhosi’s starting line up and played 85 minutes before he was taken off and replaced by Pule Mmodi, who saw out the rest of the match.

Baartman admits his performance was a reward for his perseverance and a special tribute to his grandmother and everyone who has supported him throughout his journey.

“I want to give thanks to the man above,” Baartman told SuperSport after the game.

“I think this one is going straight to my granny, to my community.

“It’s been a tough season, last season for me. I’ve only been playing five games, started the last game.

“I just want to give thanks to the coach for believing in me and trusting me, and thanks to my teammates as well.”