Moloi wants more mature approach from Chilli Boys

CHIPPA United players need to be more composed and mature after their thrilling Absa Premiership 3-3 draw with Platinum Stars at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Sunday, coach Teboho Moloi said.

Although loaded with excitement, it was the Chilli Boys’ fifth consecutive draw in as many matches.

The return of goal-scoring maestro Mark Mayambela came at the right time as he banged in two goals.

“It is a bit of a letdown that we drew, but I am at least delighted that we were able to go for goals in the match,” Moloi said.

“I had been working a lot on defence when I got here and it was nice that we could attack well for a change.

“It seemed as though the players had forgotten how to defend, which is why they could not maintain a lead.

“I really believe that we should not have conceded the last two goals, we could have done better in defence.

“It was just a matter of us switching off from defensive duties that cost in the end.

“I am really happy that our offensive play was able to yield positive results, but we need to strike a balance with our defence and offence.

“The players just need a little bit more maturity to excel, which is the reason I have been talking about an African football mentality. I want them to show some maturity.

“They [Stars] managed to fight back each time we scored a goal, which should not have happened.

“Mayambela came in and showed his experience and I am really pleased with him.

“If he wasn’t hampered by injuries he would have definitely given us more.

“I am going to keep on working on his fitness so that he can give me 100% effort next time.”

Platinum Stars now had a glimmer of hope that they would survive the relegation zone at the end of the season, coach Roger de Sa said.

They showed tremendous fighting spirit to come from behind and give Chippa United a real challenge in their own backyard.

“We were really desperate for a win when we came to Port Elizabeth,” De Sa said.

“The way we allowed them to come back after we had equalised was pretty disappointing. Our fighting spirit was relentless and it will be good for us going forward.

“I am happy that our new boys were able to come to the party and score goals.

“Riyaad Norodien and Gerald Phiri made a huge difference to the team.

“Their presence in the squad has brought about a lot confidence.”

Chippa next play away to Phiva Young Stars in the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup on Friday, while Stars face Baroka in the same competition on Wednesday next week.