Students too Clever for Chiefs
In the minutes after Kaizer Chiefs’ latest quest for silverware had come to an end at Bidvest Stadium on Saturday afternoon, Amakhosi midfielder Wiseman Meyiwa stood alone on the field, staring forlornly into the distance.
Meyiwa had plenty to think about after his red card for a stamp on Daine Klate had contributed to Chiefs’ 1-0 defeat, James Keene’s header just moments later ultimately putting Wits into the Telkom Knockout final.
For coach Steve Komphela, the search for something concrete to show for his two-and-a-bit season at Chiefs goes on, a brave display from 10men unable to salvage the deficit. Komphela was philosophical about one of the game’s pivotal moments, referee Victor Gomes deciding that Meiywa deliberately trod on Klate as he lay prostrate on the ground after a wild challenge from Willard Katsande.
“I haven’t had an opportunity to review it … when I asked him (Meyiwa) did you step on him, he said ‘As I stood up, I was not aware, I just collapsed with my foot on him.’ I need to see the picture,” said Komphela.
Wits coach Gavin Hunt was more forthright.
“It’s a red card, he jumped on him, it is a shame, but what can you do?” said Hunt.
This was a much-needed win for Wits, who have been struggling badly, but who have now progressed to second domestic cup final in two seasons, after winning the 2016 MTN8.
The Clever Boys will now look to take the momentum into tomorrow’s Absa Premiership clash at home to Mamelodi Sundowns.
Sundowns are a very good side, Pitso (Mosimane) has done well, but we jut have to battle through this period,” said Hunt, in reference to the spate of injuries that have hit the Wits squad.
Chiefs, meanwhile, face AmaZulu on Wednesday and can take encouragement from a spirited display with 10 men, especially after Komphela brought Gustavo Paez on at half-time. Amakhosi, with better finishing, might have taken the game to extra time.
“If it is not your day, (and) you are missing chances, it happens … there was an opportunity for us with (Dumisani) Zuma and Paez … (but) these are all reasons.”
In yesterday’s other semifinal, Bloemfontein Celtic needed penalties to beat Polokwane City at Peter Mokaba Stadium.