This came after the No. 21 won the Man of the Match award for his exploits against Santos on Saturday. Schalkwyk, who had a game of his life did not only grab a brace on the night but he was the man behind the two other goals setting up for both his strike partner, Jose Torrealba and Reneilwe Letsholonyane.

Calm looking Gert revealed to kaizerchiefs.com after the MTN 8 game that the Man of the Match Award which carried R8000 cheque was the first since he turned professional with Bidvest Wits more than five years ago.

"This is my first Man of the Match award," he said with a smile.

Gert endured probably the most difficult time in his football career when he was told to go train with reserve team last season.

"I was overweight last season. I had a chat with the coach when he came back and he said to me if I work hard I will get my chance to play in the first team again. Elsa Storm and Warren worked me very hard to get me on shape and I want to thank them for their support. I want to thank the coach for giving me a chance and for criticizing me during the build of up of this game for not scoring. I am looking forward for more criticism from you coach to make me a better player," he told the media after the game.

Coach Muhsin Ertugral, who sat next to the player in the conference, told the media that he was pleased with the effort the player has been putting at training, "He is also an amazing boy. I told him before the match that I will kick his butt if he does not score tonight," added Ertugral with a smile.