Fernando da Cruz calls for greater sharpness after Kaizer Chiefs survive Siwelele test

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz has challenged his players to develop a stronger “killer instinct” after they created numerous opportunities but were forced to withstand a late fightback in their 3-2 Betway Premiership victory over Siwelele FC at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday.

Chiefs took control of the match by leading 1-0 at half-time and then extending their advantage shortly after the hour mark. However, Siwelele responded twice and turned what had appeared to be a comfortable afternoon into a tense finish.

Mfundo Vilakazi put Kaizer Chiefs in front in the 30th minute, rewarding a dominant first-half display in possession. Wandile Duba then made it 2-0 after the interval.

Siwelele reduced the deficit soon afterwards, but Kaizer Chiefs restored their two-goal advantage when Samukelo Xulu scored an own goal with 14 minutes remaining.

The hosts continued to press and new signing Michael N’Guessan scored in injury time, setting up a nervous conclusion. Kaizer Chiefs held on, securing three points that moved them up to third in the Betway Premiership standings, behind Orlando Pirates and leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

Da Cruz was pleased with the result but dissatisfied with the way his side failed to impose themselves after the opposition had scored.

“In the first half, we were very good in possession and we created a lot of chances but we didn’t have the killer instinct inside the box,” Da Cruz said.

The coach said his players’ defensive response deteriorated after Kaizer Chiefs increased their lead.

“We scored our second goal, but directly afterwards, Siwelele scored their first. And we were worried after that and the defensive part was not good,” he reflected.

Da Cruz believes the problem cannot be solved by tactical changes alone. He said Kaizer Chiefs also need greater confidence and authority on the pitch, particularly when matches become difficult to control.

“But we have a lack of personality on the field. To conclude, we deserved all three points if you analyse the game, but our regret is that our opponent came into our box two times and they scored on both occasions so they have 100% success.”

He was also unhappy with his team’s beginning to the second half, when Kaizer Chiefs moved away from the passing approach that had served them well before the break.

“At the start of the second half we didn’t play well, we started to play long but we needed to continue to play the way we played in the first half.”

The Soweto club will next travel to face Polokwane City, giving Da Cruz an immediate opportunity to see whether his players can respond to his criticism.

“The first step is to do our match analysis and correct the tactical side but it’s not only that. It also depends on the spirit and mentality of the players on the field,” he concluded.