Weekend Soweto Derby was better than the recent dull, draw affairs

The Soweto Derby at the weekend was a better one after a long time. The recent derbies were forgettable drabs where players played as if they were playing for a draw.

Kaizer Chiefs have reasons to be worried. For better part of their 48 years of existence, Chiefs have been a benchmark for other clubs in South Africa and neighbouring countries.

In recent years, Chiefs have been a shadow of their former selves. Fans can blame Steve Komphela for all they want, but problems seem deeper than that. Our clubs have become predictable in the way they recruit players. If they see a promising player playing for “small clubs” they sign him.

We no longer have gems. In the past we used to have clubs unleashing rough diamonds they’ve just discovered. Because clubs are now chasing instant success, there’s less emphasis on young, unknown players.

It’s worth noting that Chiefs used to get the bulk of their best players when they played invitation sides around the country. Great players they turned out to be. I still remember the buzz around Donald “Ace” Khuse and James “Killer” Mkhwanazi. They were brought to the attention of Chiefs but somehow Chiefs dilly-dallied and Orlando Pirates hijacked the deal. Khuse only joined Chiefs later.

Those days seem like a distant memory. These days wealthy clubs use poor ones as their feeder teams.

Richardson Mzaidume, Pimville