Kaizer Chiefs’ prospects of challenging for the Betway Premiership title have suffered another setback after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Stellenbosch on Tuesday night.
The result was followed by a worrying moment for coach Fernando Da Cruz, who fell ill during the match and needed attention from doctors.
A draw at Stellenbosch is not necessarily a poor result, but it extended Chiefs’ run to five draws in their past six league fixtures. After eight matches of the new campaign, they trail champions Orlando Pirates by eight points.
Chiefs have also failed to beat Stellenbosch in their past four meetings. They lost the three previous encounters before Tuesday’s draw.
Mduduzi Shabalala scored for Chiefs, with Reeve Frosler providing the assist, but they could not hold on for a victory that would have reduced the pressure on Da Cruz’s side.
There were also several developments on the injury front. Striker Flavio Silva has returned to training, while Khanyisa Mayo is back after recovering from a hernia operation.
Langelihle Phili, who is 21, is approaching a return after suffering a serious ankle injury during training in late August. The winger could be available towards the end of October, although the technical staff do not want to rush him back.
Phili missed the match against Stellenbosch, as did Lebohang Maboe. Bradley Cross returned to the team, but Thabiso Monyane suffered another knock.
Young attacker Luke Baartman was an unused substitute. Silva, Ethan Chislett, Asanele Velebayi, Kabelo Nkgwesa and Thulani Mabaso all came on during the match.
Kaizer Chiefs starting XI: Leaner; Monyane, Miguel, Moloisane, Cross; Frosler, Mthethwa; Vilakazi, Shabalala, Mako; Duba.
Substitutes used: Flavio Silva, Ethan Chislett, Asanele Velebayi, Kabelo Nkgwesa and Thulani Mabaso.
