Ndlovu blunt on Chiefs’ title race chances ahead of Arrows game
Siphesihle Ndlovu has drawn the line for Kaizer Chiefs. Beat Golden Arrows on Sunday, or start watching the top of the Betway Premiership from further back.
Chiefs are unbeaten after six league games — three wins, three draws, 12 points, fourth on the log table. One point off second. Eight off the lead.
The last time they met Abafana Bes’thende, Arrows dumped them out of the MTN8. Last Saturday, Polokwane held them 1-1.
“Obviously we were disappointed not to get the win against Polokwane,” Ndlovu said.
“But we have had a week to prepare for this one and it’s going to be an interesting game because we have played them already. We know it won’t be an easy ride, but it’s very important for us to go into the break on the back of a positive result.”
He is not selling Arrows short. Possession. Transitions. Trouble.
“They are a possession-based side that is also dangerous in transition so they are tricky to play against,” he added.
“But we have our own tactical plan that will nullify their strengths and pose them problems.”
Captain and goalkeeper Brandon Petersen is out. In-form striker Wandile Duba is out. Both picked up injuries during the week. Ndlovu’s answer is the squad, not the excuse.
“They are two important players in our team but in football you have to deal with unforeseen circumstances.
“And, as the coaches always tell us, we are a squad and every player has to be ready to step up when needed. So we trust the players who will come in to fulfil the roles they are given.”
Mbombela is Arrows’ “home” this weekend, not KwaZulu-Natal. Ndlovu still wants the stadium in gold and black.
“If we want to stay in the title race, this game is vital to us continuing our journey, so whether we win in style or by grinding it out, we want those three points on Sunday.
“I look forward to seeing our fans and urge them to come out in numbers,” he urged. “We are going to need them to give us the extra edge away from home that could make the difference for us.”
