Ndlovu: Chiefs must beat Golden Arrows to keep title hopes alive

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu says his side must take all three points against Golden Arrows on Sunday if they are to remain in the Betway Premiership title race.

Chiefs surrendered points last weekend when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Polokwane City. Fernando da Cruz’s side now trail leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by eight points ahead of their meeting with Arrows.

Ndlovu acknowledged the disappointment of the result against Polokwane City but said Chiefs had used the past week to prepare for a demanding encounter.

“Obviously we were disappointed not to get the win against Polokwane but we have had a week to prepare for this one and it’s going to be an interesting game because we have played them already and we know it won’t be an easy ride, but it’s very important for us to go into the break on the back of a positive result,” Ndlovu told the club’s official website.

The midfielder expects Golden Arrows to pose a tactical challenge, particularly because of their ability to control possession and attack quickly when the ball changes hands.

“They are a possession-based side that is also dangerous in transition so they are tricky to play against but we have our own tactical plan that will nullify their strengths and pose them problems,” he added.

Chiefs have already faced Golden Arrows, giving Ndlovu and his team-mates an understanding of what to expect. However, he stressed that the priority was securing victory rather than the manner in which it was achieved.

“If we want to stay in the title race, this game is vital to us continuing our journey, so whether we win in style or by grinding it out, we want those three points on Sunday,” he said.

Chiefs will be without goalkeeper Brandon Petersen and Wandile Duba, but Ndlovu believes the squad has enough strength to cope with their absence.

The midfielder described both players as important members of the team, while also pointing to the responsibility of the wider squad when injuries or other unforeseen circumstances affect the team.

“They are two important players in our team but in football you have to deal with unforeseen circumstances and, as the coaches always tell us, we are a squad and every player has to be ready to step up when needed, so we trust the players who will come in to fulfil the roles they are given,” Ndlovu said.