Kaizer Chiefs rue missed penalty as Golden Arrows hold them to goalless draw

Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Dillon Sheppard said the team’s ability to create chances was a positive sign, despite a missed penalty and several wasted opportunities in Sunday’s goalless draw with Golden Arrows at Mbombela Stadium.

The result was Kaizer Chiefs’ fourth draw in seven Betway Premiership matches this season, leaving Fernando Da Cruz’s side fourth in the league standings.

The home side had opportunities to secure all three points, but failed to find a way past Golden Arrows. Sheppard remained encouraged by the number of chances his team created, saying the main improvement required was greater accuracy in front of goal.

“I think it was a fair result, but I think we deserved to win it if you look at the quality of the chances,” Sheppard told the media.

“I think we’re getting into the final third. The final third is what actually happens in the opposition box. Our creativity has been good; it’s just a matter of putting our chances away.

“The good thing is that we’re creating chances, which is very, very positive. We’ve just got to carry on with that.”

The match also brought an injury concern for Lebohang Maboe, who was forced off after suffering an ankle problem.

Sheppard said the club would wait for the medical assessment before determining the seriousness of the injury, although he hoped Maboe would recover in time for international duty.

“Obviously, the doctors will examine him. For Lebo to go down, you know that he was in pain,” he said.

“But hopefully it’s just a slight ankle sprain and he’ll be ready for the national team.”

Leaner makes promising Chiefs debut

Goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner was praised after making his Kaizer Chiefs debut following his move from Sekhukhune United.

The goalkeeper made several important saves and helped the team keep a clean sheet, earning praise from Sheppard for his contribution and leadership.

“Very good. His leadership at the back, and a couple of crucial saves to keep us in the game, were very good,” Sheppard said.

“That’s why we have a squad. When players get injured and other players step in, they take their chance. So, I’m very happy for him.

“He’s come in with a lot of confidence and, as you saw, we kept a clean sheet today. So, it’s very good for him.”

Kaizer Chiefs will use the FIFA break to work on their finishing before returning to league action against Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium on 17 October.