Posted in News, Team News on Sep 29, 2019.
“There are many things that happened during the game,” said the German coach. “We played against a very organised team and we had to devise changes during the course of the game to make sure we win the match.”
Chiefs beat Baroka FC courtesy of a solitary goal scored by Lebogang Manyama in the first half. It was his third of the season.
“We played some of the players who were under strain,” revealed Middendorp. “Kearyn Baccus for example was under pressure and we almost took him out at half time. And when we brought in Willard Katsande we had to manoeuver and make some tactical changes. But yes, I will sleep well with this win and wake up on Sunday to look forward to the next match on Tuesday.”
Middendorp heaped praises on Man of the Match Daniel Akpeyi, “if anyone questions the ability of Akpeyi, I don’t know,” lamented Middendorp. “He is a fantastic person who’s dedicated to his game. I don’t have any problems in the goalkeeping area at the moment.”
Chiefs suffered a blow with Itumeleng Khune and George Maluleka substituted due to injuries in the first half of match. “We will assess the two players,” remarked Middendorp. “They will probably not be available on Tuesday. But we have depth in our squad. Some of the players have not played so far in the season. Youngster Njabulo Blom was due to play in the MDC fixture on Sunday and had to be pulled out to join the first team for Tuesday’s game.”
“Honestly I’m not looking at the number of wins in a row. I look at the structure and our preparation for the next game. I’m happy we’re on top of the log.”
Chiefs host Lamontville Golden Arrows in another Absa Premiership league match at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, 1 October. Kick-off is at 19:30.