Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has shouldered the blame after his side missed out on claiming the MTN8 title following their defeat against Orlando Pirates.

The Brazilians suffered a 3-1 defeat on penalties against the Buccaneers after the game ended goalless after 120 minutes.

As a result, the Buccaneers were crowned MTN8 champions for the second consecutive season after their victory at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban,

However, Mokwena was proud of his side’s effort despite losing out on the first piece of silverware on offer this season.

“Congratulations to Pirates on being crowned champions; it is only fitting that we extend our congratulations,” Mokwena told his club’s official website.

“We are also immensely proud of our players and the dedication and talent they exhibited throughout the game. We had numerous opportunities to secure victory and I must say, I am exceptionally proud of their performance.

“While we had the chance to win it within the regulation 90 minutes, regrettably, we could not. In times of defeat, the coaches must take responsibility and I am the first to raise my hand and accept any blame.”

Photo by Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix