Free State Stars coach Giovanni Solinas says injury to captain Paulus Masehe has affected the team’s performance following their 1-0 defeat against Orlando Pirates at the Orlando Stadium.

The narrow result against the Buccaneers was the first loss for Ea Lla Koto since the Italian returned to the Bethelem club.

Although disappointed by this loss, the 48-year-old coach said Masehe’s leadership qualities are being missed.

‘I’m very disappointed with the result, but I am happy with the fight that my players put up on the day,’ Solinas told the Free State Stars website.

‘I must say we missed our captain Paulus Masehe, he is a quality player and we also missed his leadership qualities at the back.

‘Masehe is not a player you can replace easy, his presence is always felt as he encourages the players to push beyond their limits.’

Free State Stars will travel to the Peter Mokaba Stadium to take on Polokwane City in the Absa Premiership on Wednesday.

Kick-off has been set for 19:30.

Image: Sydney Mahlangu/ BackpagePix