Win over Downs calms nerves before derby
Depleted but resolute Komphela basks in glory
Kaizer Chiefs have switched into survival mode just at the right time, when coach Steve Komphela needs another strong charge, with Orlando Pirates next in the cross hairs.
Chiefs threw caution to the wind to put on one of their most clinical performances of the season in their 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versveld on Tuesday night.
A debut goal from 19-yearold defender Siyabonga Ngezana and a Bernard Parker strike clinched the win, while Themba Zwane replied via a penalty for Downs.
“Maybe we should be under pressure more [often] because that’s when you think better,” Komphela said.
“Whenever you have 11 players performing within their level you are likely to win the match.”
With a depleted squad ravaged by injuries, Komphela managed to secure a crucial victory that has alleviated some pressure off his shoulders ahead of the Soweto derby on Saturday (3.30pm).
Komphela improvised in defence, playing with five players at the back with winger Joseph Malongoane playing right-back due to injuries of Ramahlwe Mphahlele (knee) and Kgotso Moleko (knee ligament).
Amakhosi’s man-of-thematch on debut, Ngezana, received special praise from Komphela for his goal and for taming Sundowns’ Percy Tau.
“We were resolute and compliment must be given to the defenders Ngezana, the man of the match, Tower [Mathoho] and [Daniel] Cardoso.
“Ngezana is an old school centre-back who enjoys playing one-on-one with the striker,” Komphela added