DEFENDER’S PERSPECTIVE

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Gary Goldstone believes that the constant changing of starting goalkeeper will have given the AmaKhosi defenders some difficulties.

“There will be mental challenges because centrebacks are expected to command their defensive line,” Goldstone says. “The constant ch hanging of the keepers ca an create problems with co ommunication and impact on n results, unless you ha ave keepers with similar qu ualities in terms of ability. “So So it can have an impact, but if managed the right way it can be a positive. The top teams in Europe have their first-choice gloveman and the coaches will make that known. As a defender you need to understand the man behind you and have a mental connection with him in the same way you do with your defensive partner.

“Those are small attributes that add value. With chopping and changing keepers, it creates instability for the defenders because mentally they have to be wary and it becomes a psychological factor.”