The loss marked Orbit’s seventh defeat of the campaign, but Makhoye insists there is no reason to panic. The Mswenko Boys, who are competing in the top-flight for the first time, have shown flashes of promise despite inconsistency in results.

“Looking at the goals, we’ve set for ourselves, we are on the right track. We want to save our status,” Makhoye was quoted by Sowetan.

“Our target was to get seven wins in the first 15 games. Right now, we’ve got four wins and seven defeats. Are we worried? No. Are we happy? Yes, because we’re learning every week and we know what we’re building toward.”

Orbit has struggled defensively, conceding 20 goals in 12 matches, but the coach was quick to highlight the team’s improving attack, with 11 goals scored so far.

“It’s very concerning that we’ve conceded so many goals, but the positive side is that we’re also scoring. That tells us our attacking shape and combinations are coming together,” he added.

Makhoye suggested that fixture congestion and fatigue may have contributed to the defeat.

“Chiefs had more rest because they played on Friday, and we played on Saturday. We only had Sunday to prepare before travelling on Monday, which made a difference,” he explained.

Despite the setbacks, Makhoye remains upbeat, confident that his players have the hunger, belief, and character to steer the club to safety.

“There’s no panic here. We know we’re going to win games and achieve our goal,” he concluded.

The top-flight rookies are sitting in 13th spot on the league standings after registering 13 points.