Kaizer Chiefs are aiming to sign off on a high note before the Fifa international break to stay within striking distance of Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates at the top of the Betway Premiership log.
Chiefs have had a decent start to the season. They are currently fourth on the log with 12 points, eight behind leaders Sundowns, who have played two games more.
Amakhosi’s season could have been better, but they’ve been their own worst enemies, drawing three games against Sundowns, Richards Bay and Polokwane City due to individual mistakes, notably from goalkeeper and captain Brandon Petersen.
Heading into their clash against Golden Arrows at a neutral Mbombela Stadium on Sunday (kick-off 3pm), Chiefs know that they can’t falter, and have to be wary of their opponents, who eliminated them from the MTN8 this season and have been impressive under new coach Pitso Dladla.
“They are such a tricky side because they are a possession-based team,” midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu noted. “It is very important for us to stay in the title race, and go into the break in a good mood. So, that’s what we are targeting.”
Chiefs will notably be without Petersen and striker Wandile Duba on Sunday after the pair sustained injuries at training this week. That could be a double-edged sword as the break could help Petersen rediscover his form, while breaking the momentum of Duba, who has already scored three goals in five league games this season. But Ndlovu is not worried.
“Obviously, the shortfall of players in the team gives us a little limp, but I think everyone knows that they need to stay ready. The coach always preaches that,” Ndlovu said. “Every player will need to take part.
“I think this is the moment where everyone needs to step in and showcase what they have. They need to adapt to the structure and help the team.”
Ndlovu reiterated that it will be important for them to overcome the hurdles that have hampered their progress in recent weeks, and close the first quarter of the season on a high.
“As I said before, if we are going to stay in the title race, these are the type of games that we need to win,” Ndlovu said. “Whether we grind the result or play well, it doesn’t matter. We need the result at the end of the day.” | IOL Sport
Betway Premiership matchday 7 — At a glance
RESULT
Thursday: Orlando Pirates 2, 0 Durban City
FIXTURES
Saturday: Richards Bay v Sekhukhune, 3pm; Polokwane City v AmaZulu, 5.30pm; Kruger United v Stellenbosch, 8pm
Sunday: Milford v Durban City, 3pm; Marumo Gallants v Orlando Pirates, 3pm; Golden Arrows v Kaizer Chiefs, 3pm; TS Galaxy v Chippa, 5.30pm