A glimmer of hope as Chiefs beat Polokwane
Polokwane City (0) 0
Kaizer Chiefs (0) 1
Scorer: Chiefs – Pule Mmodi (51m)
● Kaizer Chiefs gave their supporters a pleasant early Christmas present when they beat Polokwane City by a solitary goal to bring a glimmer of hope in what has been a diabolical start to the 2023-2024 campaign.
Amakhosi have already lost six times in 14 DStv Premiership matches this season, but interim coach Cavin Johnson will have some conviction that his team may finally be turning a corner after their back-to-back league wins, their sixth victory of the season.
A lot of work remains for Amakhosi, who still lack an ability to finish off their opponents. Pule Mmodi, signed from Lamontville Golden Arrows before the start of the season, scored his fourth league goal of the season — a beautiful curler after the speedy winger cut inside from the left flank early in the second half.
Chiefs looked to be labouring to another disappointing goalless draw after failing to produce clear-cut chances in their first 45 minutes despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession.
Amakhosi had the ball mainly in areas where they couldn’t hurt the home side. Polokwane had better openings in the first half, but Chiefs goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma stood in their way, making two brilliant saves to deny striker Douglas Mapfumo and roving rightback Thabang Matuludi.
Mmodi always looked sharper among the Chiefs attackers, and his goal came through his bravery as he created space to beat Polokwane keeper Manuel Sapunga with a low shot just outside the area.
Chiefs could have added more goals when they made some changes in the second half but lack of accuracy and conviction in their attacks meant they continued with their shocking scoring rate, which has seen them netting an average of a goal a game in the league.
Though they are now sitting comfortably in the top half of the table, Chiefs will need to improve momentum in their next two league games against Richards Bay at home on December 23, and away to Sekhukhune United on December 30, to finish 2023 on a positive note.
City started the season like a house on fire but with four draws and two defeats in their last six matches, they’ll be desperate to finish the year better.
Their last two matches of 2023 are away to Chippa United and defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns.