Three wins in a row is what the doctor ordered for Kaizer Chiefs in the past seven days. A visibly pleased coach Ernst Middendorp avoids being carried away by Amakhosi’s current run of form.

“We are working according to a scheduled plan,” says the German mentor. “We don’t look at how many games we have to win in order for us to achieve certain milestones. We work on the preparation based on the overall team objectives. It is about getting the players to get to a certain level and that takes a bit of time and practice.”

Chiefs recorded their third win in a row when they beat Lamontville Golden Arrows 2-0 in an entertaining match played on Tuesday night at a chilly FNB Stadium.

Middendorp expressed satisfaction with Njabulo Blom making his debut on the night: “He is a fine player,” refers Middendorp to the youngster. “Remember Blom plays in the Multichoice Diski Challenge week in week out and has proven himself at the U20 World Cup level as well. He adapted well on his first day and made a sterling contribution to the team performance. I’m happy with his contribution.”

Chiefs remain perched on top of the log which pleases Middendorp ahead of the FIFAInternational break.

“We are looking at this period to have the players recovering from injuries,” says Middendorp. “Players like Samir Nurković, George Maluleka, Reeve Frosler and Kgotso Moleko will be back soon. And I’m glad Ramahlwe Mphahlele is making steady progress as well. He is now playing as an extra man in training which is a good sign - he is close to making a come-back.”

Khama Billiat had a hand in both of the goals on the night which resulted in Middendorp heaping praise on the Man of the Match recipient.

“If you look at the contribution Khama made against Arrows, I can safely say I give him full marks,” raves Middendorp. “He contributed to a team performance and deserves my praise. This is what we expect from the players. A team performance is what we need from all our players.”

Chiefs will be involved in two friendly matches against Mamelodi Sundowns and Bloemfontein Celtic during the break.

“We will use the upcoming friendly matches in the Shell Helix Ultra and Macufe Cups to get the other players who have not gotten the nod yet up to speed,” concludes Middendorp. “The players will want to use these friendly matches to demonstrate their readiness to be in the line-up.”