The veteran striker scored the only goal of a game that the Urban Warriors dominated in Port Elizabeth – from the penalty spot after he was fouled by Erick Mathoho.
De Sa has often come in for criticism for the fact that he has reached five finals and never won one, even being dubbed ‘Roger de Silver’, but Paulse says no-one deserves this more.
“I know he’s been ragged because he’s reached five cup finals and never won, but he’s an amazing coach,” he said after the match. “He blends us experienced guys with the youth well, as we’ve shown.”
Paulse has been in the game for a long time, and he says today ranks up there with his highlights.
“This is right up there. It’s been a tough three, four years for the club, but the club is on an upward curve and I think this is a base.
“We have hungry players who have ambition. We must take everything one step at a time – this is only one step. I think half of these boys are going to become top, top players.
“It’s important for us to now stay humble, but for the next few hours we are going to forget about being humble!”