Da Cruz Blames Costly “Gifts” For Chiefs Dropping Points Against Richards Bay
Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says costly “gifts” are becoming a problem at Naturena after his side dropped points once again against Richards Bay on Wednesday evening.
Amakhosi were held to a 2-2 draw by Richards Bay at Princess Magogo Stadium, with Da Cruz unhappy with the way his side conceded both goals.
Chiefs conceded the opening goal before the 10-minute mark after captain Brandon Petersen made a costly mistake. Amakhosi managed to find an equaliser, but Richards Bay restored their lead after Petersen once again failed to keep out the shot.
Chiefs responded again in the second half to secure a point, but Da Cruz believes they should have taken all three points considering the way his team controlled the match.
“We conceded this goal, but we continued to play well, and I think we had a very good second half,” he said.
“The problem is that we have been giving away too many gifts since the beginning of the season, and it is costing us points.
“At half-time, I told them that when you dominate a team so much and have such control of the match, it is not normal to give the opponent two gifts in one game.
“Today, we lost two points, but not because the opponent was better than us, but because we gave them gifts.”
The draw means Chiefs have now dropped points in their last two league matches. They also drew with Mamelodi Sundowns in their previous Betway Premiership match at home, when Petersen was at fault for Sundowns’ goal.
Despite failing to win, Amakhosi remain in the top three with eight points, two behind both Orlando Pirates and Sundowns.
Da Cruz was also pleased with the impact of the players who came on during the second half, saying the substitutes have continued to make a difference for the team this season.
“This season, every time we bring on the substitutes, they have an impact on the match,” he added.
“We saw it in the previous matches, and we saw it again today.
“We have to keep this mentality because, to move forward, we don’t need 11 players; we need a complete squad that helps us when needed.”
Chiefs will now have time to work on their mistakes before returning to action next weekend.
Amakhosi will face Siwelele at Royal Bafokeng Stadium on September 5 as they look to return to winning ways and avoid dropping more points.
