Kaizer Chiefs coach, Muhsin Ertugral said that his side has a long way to go, following the Telkom Charity tournament held in Mafikeng last weekend. The Glamour Boys knocked out ‘tournament favourites’, Mamelodi Sundowns before proceeding to the final to face Orlando Pirates.

However, Orlando Pirates were not about to allow Amakhosi to beat them thrice in a row. It was then that Orlando Pirates emerged victorious with a solitary goal. Kaizer Chiefs gave a brave performance and they were unlucky to be denied a clear penalty when Mandla Masango was brought down by Benson Mhlongo inside the 18 area.

Ertugral attributed the loss to the absence of key players up front, Kaizer Motaung Jr. and Siphelele Mthembu who both missed out because of injuries. Jose Torrealba who played his heart out in the game, needed a late fitness test in order to take part.

“I first have to commend Orlando Pirates for a win. They closed us down and never allowed us to play. We looked a bit sluggish early in the first half and the goal was as a result of us being disorganised at the back. It does not help to make excuses, but we did miss the services of Kaizer Motaung Jr. who played very well in the past couple of weeks. Siphelele Mthembu also had to sit out because of an injury. Then there was a penalty; if you do not give that one I do not know when we will ever give it. ” he said.

Ertugral said that the team is still in a building process, “We have recycled 23 players in a space of a year. It has not been easy. I know have a commited team’. There is talent in South Africa and I have always said that and my young boys played really well today. Having said that, we have not yet achieved anything with this team. There is still a long way to go. My captain (Jimmy Tau), sitting next to me knows that there is a lot of work to be done and we will both stick together”.