Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi acknowledged their lack of a dominant center-forward following their 2-0 defeat to Richards Bay in the Betway Premiership at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday, a loss that jeopardized their top-eight position.

Richards Bay’s victory, secured with second-half goals from Fezile Gcaba and Yanela Mbuthuma, marked Chiefs’ second consecutive loss to them in Durban, significantly boosting the home side’s survival hopes.

Chiefs were missing Ranga Chivaviro and Tashreeq Morris, both imposing figures in set-piece situations, for undisclosed reasons.

Despite starting strongly, Chiefs failed to capitalize on early opportunities. In the 22nd minute, Ashley Du Preez’s unmarked header from Dillan Solomons’ cross was easily collected by Salim Magoola. Pule Mmodi also had two shots comfortably saved by Magoola.

Chiefs maintained possession, but Richards Bay’s defense remained resolute, effectively thwarting their attempts to penetrate. Another Du Preez setup for Mmodi resulted in another simple save for Magoola.

“Against a team defending with a low block and a lot of players inside or around the box, we tried to play combinations and deliver crosses, but we lacked height,” Nabi explained. “We needed a strong striker who could contest for the ball. We must credit Richards Bay and congratulate them on their hard-fought victory. That’s football.”

This win is vital for Richards Bay’s survival campaign. With Magesi escaping the relegation zone after a string of wins, Richards Bay needed to secure these crucial points.

The KwaZulu-Natal club has now climbed to 11th place in the Betway Premiership with 24 points from 22 matches. Chiefs, despite remaining in the top eight with 29 points from 22 matches, have suffered a setback in their pursuit of a higher league position.