Chiefs live to fight another day as they progressed to the round of 16, thanks to a 2-0 win against Maritzburg United for the first time in three seasons. Chiefs could have scored more goals however, once again failing to convert their chances. Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane alluded that his team needs to improve in the final third.
“We started like a house on fire today, we had a couple of chances and I think in the first 15 minutes we had about three. Their keeper made good saves and we were in good control of the game. I think in the first half we were on top of them and second half obviously they got a red card, and it is always difficult to play against a team that has a red card.
“They formed that block and they always waited for the right moment to attack you and we said to the guys that they will be pumping balls to Peprah because his strong physically and can hold the ball. That as soon as he holds the ball up, if we allow him to hold the ball then the rest will join. We had to stop that from happening” Zwane said post-match.
Chiefs had massive chances to kill the game. Ashley Du Preez and Saile Basomboli had the majority of the chances but could not convert. Fortunately for Chiefs he two forward players made amends for their blunders as they found the net in extra time.
Saile Basomboli scored a goal in the 92-minute courtesy of a Zitha assist. In extra time coach Zwane put on Happy Mashiane who immediately impacted the game. In the 112-minute Mashiane put in a delicious cross that was met by Du Preez on the half volley that left Maritzburg goalkeeper King Ndlovu stranded.
As much as Chiefs have progressed, Zwane’s team still needs a lot of improvement in front of goal. Chiefs took 30 shots and just managed 7 on target with Maritzburg took 11 and 5 shots on target. Chiefs struggled to breakdown Maritzburg lines especially in the second half after the KZN based side went a man down as captain Travis Graham received his second yellow in the 38th minute. A win suffices; however, coach Zwane still has a huge task on his hands going forward.
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