Orlando Pirates debutant Isaac Chansa admitted his first game for the club in the goalless draw against BIDvest Wits wasn’t exactly what he had hoped for, however, he is determined to focus on the positives and build on that performance.

Chansa, who was recently re-signed from Swedish outfit Helsingborgs IF, marked his return to the club with a workman-like performance, playing in the middle of the park alongside Andile Jali.

“It was a tough match and very tense,” Chansa told Orlandopiratesfc.com. “Wits didn’t give us any space to play. They closed us down very quickly and this forced us to play more direct football, which suited them better.

“I really think I had a fair game despite only playing my first competitive match in over two weeks [Chansa’s last competitive game was for Zambia in the Afcon]. Hence, I must admit that signs of lack of match fitness were there, particularly in the first half.”

The Zambian international almost capped his return to the club with a goal 20 minutes from time after receiving a pass on the edge of the box, but unfortunately he opted for power over placement and ballooned his shot over the bar, much to his disappointment.

“Despite a slow start in the first half I think I did much better in the second. However, I was unfortunate not to score late in the second half. It would have been great to mark my debut with a goal –- and considering how the game ended, I’m pretty sure that would’ve been the winning goal.”

He added: “However, there is no point of crying over spilt milk, all we need to do now is focus on the game against Amazulu and look to rectify our mistakes.”

Chansa also spoke about the warm welcome he received from the Pirates supporters on his return to the club and said that he will seek to put the smiles back on their faces.

“I am looking forward to my second appearance for the team. I will look to double my efforts and play much better in the game against Amazulu.

“I really want to help my team win against our opposition and at the same time give our supporters something to smile about.

“Walking out on that BIDvest Stadium pitch to see the many Ghost supporters around the stadium was a sight to behold and it was very good for my confidence. It was so encouraging to see them in full support again after all those years. For that reason I really want to play my part in helping the team do well so that I can put the smiles back on their faces. It’s the least they deserve,” said the Zambian international.