Kaizer Chiefs coach Cedric Kaze has hailed the impact of their second-half substitutes following their hard-fought win over Marumo Gallants on Wednesday.
A superb second-half strike from Goldy Lilepo proved decisive as the Soweto giants claimed all three points in Bloemfontein.
Speaking to SuperSport TV, Kaze admitted Chiefs were below par in the opening half but praised the team’s response after the break.
“We are happy for the three points. I believe we didn’t start the game well,” he said.
“The first half was a bit sloppy and a little reactive. We had to tell the players that we really wanted the three points and that we needed to go out there and get on the front foot. I believe the second half was much, much better – and what a goal.”
Kaze was particularly pleased with the impact made by Ndlovu and da Silva after the duo were introduced shortly after the hour mark.
“We knew that sometimes players who have been getting a lot of game time can struggle, especially in a match with many 50-50 duels,” Kaze added.
“We are happy with the contribution of Ndlovu and Silva when they came in. They stabilised the team and allowed us to be more threatening in attack.”
The Burundian tactician added that the focus now shifts to continental action.
“What a goal. We are very happy to get the three points and now we are going to focus on our CAF Confederation Cup game on Sunday.”