Da Cruz says Kaizer Chiefs must improve finishing after Stellenbosch draw

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says his side must work on their efficiency in front of goal after being held to a 1-1 draw by Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership.

The result at FNB Stadium on Tuesday left Chiefs frustrated, with the team’s tactical approach failing to satisfy a demanding home crowd. Stellenbosch took the lead through Kwayiba before Langelihle Phili, credited elsewhere as Mduduzi Shabalala, levelled for the Glamour Boys.

Da Cruz was absent from the post-match news conference after falling ill and vomiting. The Frenchman was, however, well enough to speak to the media on Wednesday night during the Carling Knockout Last 16 draw, when Chiefs were paired with TS Galaxy.

Speaking through his interpreter, Julien Le Heran, Da Cruz acknowledged the concerns over his tactical decisions and his team’s shortcomings inside the penalty area.

“We are disappointed,” Da Cruz said.

“We are disappointed for our fans because we know every game our fans are happy. But we must analyse the situation very well.

“We didn’t win, but we had chances to score. We know it’s the beginning of the season & we lack efficiency inside the box, but it’s only work, work, work!”

The draw leaves Kaizer Chiefs fourth in the Betway Premiership, with 14 points from eight matches.

Although Da Cruz remains unbeaten in the league, a run of draws has allowed the gap to leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to grow to nine points. Chiefs have now been unable to turn several opportunities into victories, increasing the pressure on the coaching staff and squad to improve their attacking output.

Chiefs turn attention to Africa

Amakhosi must quickly switch their focus to continental competition, with a trip to Zambia next on the schedule.

They will face Red Arrows in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round tie. Chiefs will then return home to play TS Galaxy, known as the Rockets, in the Carling Knockout before preparing for the Soweto Derby.