Middendorp reflects on Soweto Derby TKO
Middendorp reflects on Soweto Derby TKO

Posted in News, Team News on Nov 05, 2019.

“We started well and scored goals,” reflects Ernst Middendorp. “We lost concentration at some points during the game. After they got the red card, we lost focus a bit. But all in all, we showed character and experience.”

Kaizer Chiefs paved their way into the Telkom Knockout Cup semifinal after claiming a big scalp by beating archrivals Orlando Pirates via a penalty shootout.

“We were tight and we didn’t lose shape,” continues Middendorp, “We aligned in the second half and continued to exert ourselves in the game. We were definitely in charge, no doubt about that. I cannot follow what others saw. We will discuss the shortcomings more. I thought when we had an extra man after their red card, we got carried away in the extra time. We will handle it differently going into the future.”

The thrill a minute game ended 2-2 and had to be decided on penalties.

“We kept our structure and our way of playing throughout and that is pleasing. We just changed position by position. We brought in Dumsani Zuma for Willard Katsande at a goal down. We brought in extra attack in Bernard Parker for Njabulo Blom. We meant business and wanted to win the match in regulation time.

“These types of Derbies are always unpredictable. We were prepared for this match. No doubt we had moments of panic and challenges during the match. But that we will sort out before the next match,” says the German mentor.

Chiefs travel to Chippa United on Wednesday for a 19:30 appointment at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

“The game against Chippa is massive for us. That is what matters now, the Saturday match is water under the bridge. We are just glad we are still in the competition. Now we are looking forward to Wednesday,” he concludes.

 

 

Share this article: