TS Galaxy see Carling Knockout exit as chance to address league troubles

TS Galaxy interim coach Esau Mtsweni believes the club’s early Carling Knockout elimination could help them focus on their more pressing battle in the Betway Premiership.

The Rockets were beaten 3-0 by Kaizer Chiefs in their last-16 tie at FNB Stadium on the previous night, a result that extended their difficult run. Galaxy sit 13th in the league, with six points from eight matches.

Mtsweni said their league position made it necessary to prioritise domestic results rather than pursuing a lengthy cup run.

“I think the most important thing for us now is the league, and maybe this exit was a blessing in disguise so that we can concentrate more on the league because that’s what matters for us now. I don’t want to say this, but I think it was a blessing in disguise,” he said.

Galaxy had arrived at FNB Stadium hoping to progress, but Mtsweni felt the nature of their performance ultimately made the defeat useful in the context of their wider campaign.

“Obviously, we came here to win, but seeing this performance, I think it was good for us to be eliminated so that we can concentrate on the real deal. I mean, everyone wants to play cups and in finals, but you can’t play a final while you’re not doing well in the league,” he added.

The match also proved a difficult night for Galaxy centre-back Veluyeke Zulu. He was introduced before the 25-minute mark, but was substituted again in the 79th minute.

By that stage, Zulu had conceded a penalty and had been beaten by Wandile Duba for the second goal of the evening. Mtsweni said the decision to remove the defender was unavoidable after what he considered an under-par display.

Galaxy’s defensive problems have become increasingly pronounced. They have conceded 15 goals in nine matches across all competitions, including six in their past two games.

Mtsweni also criticised the team’s first-half showing against Kaizer Chiefs, saying it was during that period that he realised Galaxy were unlikely to get the result they wanted.

The defeat means Galaxy have now gone five matches without a win. They have lost four of those games and have not scored in any of them.

Despite that lack of attacking output, Mtsweni said the team’s inability to create opportunities was not the central problem. He believes Galaxy are producing chances, but are failing to turn them into goals.

Mtsweni recently took charge of the side after replacing Bernard Parker on the bench and now faces the task of improving their league form, with Galaxy’s early cup exit leaving them to concentrate solely on their Betway Premiership campaign.