Chiefs win, Laffor helps Sundowns to final

JOHANNESBURG: No arguments, this was quite awful.

It was another forgettable performance from struggling Kaizer Chiefs, but they finally ended a winless run that had cast serious doubts on their title-winning credentials.

But last night’s showing didn’t do them any real favours. Until the hour mark, when Michelle Katsvairo came oon for Edward Manqele, Chiefs had not had a shot on target against a plucky Highlands Park side in Tembisa.

And despite victory for Amakhosi – only their second win in 16 matches from all competitions – the pressure is still on coach Steve Komphela.

Chiefs relied on a penalty from George Lebese in the 65th minute to secure the three points. Lwandile Mfiki awarded a spot kick for a foul on William Twala.

While there was clear contact on the speedy Twala by Auguston Leonard, the foul was just outside the box and it should have been a free kick.

There will be high-fives all around at Naturena in the build-up to yet another league encounter against Maritzburg United on Saturday.

But if Komphela pays attention to detail, he will realise that he still hasn’t solved Chiefs’ goalscoring conundrum. He made three changes from the 1-1 draw against Platinum Stars at FNB Stadium a week ago.

Highlands Park coach Allan Freese went for consistency and kept the same starting XI who beat Baroka FC 2-1 last week.

Chiefs were only ever in control, with the number of shots on target improving, when Katsvairo entered the fray.

Manqele has been ineffective so far this season, even though Komphela has thrown him a lifeline by taking him off the transfer list.

But the Amakhosi coach will have to look elsewhere for a hitman this weekend or face further criticism from the stands.

Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns beat Chippa United 1-0 in their MTN8 semi-final second-leg clash at Lucas Moripe Stadium, reports Hosea Ramphekwa.

Anthony Laffor came on to score, helping Sundowns reach the final of the knockout tournament for the first time in eight years.

Laffor also came on to provide an assist for Khama Billiat in the CAF Champions League against Zesco United at the weekend.