Kaizer Chiefs coach Giovanni Solinas has insisted that his defenders were not to blame for Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates.
The Italian selected a back four of Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Mario Booysen, Siyabonga Ngezana and Godfrey Walusimbi, and they struggled to shut out a menacing Buccaneers attack.
Justin Shonga and Augustine Mulenga looked threatening throughout the game, although the former missed two glorious chances to score. In the end, Pirates won through goals from Innocent Maela and Vincent Pule after Khama Billiat’s opener.
“It was not a poor performance from our defenders [against Pirates],” said Solinas in his post-match press conference.
“We have good defenders. I am not concerned about this. Kaizer Chiefs have the best defenders in South Africa.
“This is my opinion. I respect your opinion.
“I am the coach, I will not change my defenders with those of Pirates or Sundowns. I will keep my defenders.”
Amakhosi have conceded 11 goals in as many Premiership matches this season, having let in only 22 across 30 games last season — the best defensive record in 2017/18.
