Baxter whips Chiefs into shape

Johannesburg -  Coach Stuart Baxter's tongue lashing after their defeat to Ajax Cape Town earlier in the week gave Kaizer Chiefs the lift they needed, according to Bernard Parker.

Parker earned the Man of the Match award in Amakhosi's 2-1 victory over high-flying Wits in their Premiership match at FNB Stadium on Saturday evening.

"In our last game we know we made some mistakes and we weren't switched on in certain areas," he said.

"Sometimes we have moments in the game when we rise and then we're a little bit down again, but it's all about mental strength.

"The coach was a little bit harsh with us, he gave us some harsh words, and told us we need to stretch ourselves. Today we definitely did that.

"We had longer good periods, better possession and combinations, and we went down a little bit, but we kept our maximum focus and we got a positive result."

Baxter admitted they were under pressure after the 1-0 loss to Ajax, and he was relieved to grab three points at home as the title holders climbed further up the top half of the league table.

"When we play here we want to win every game, be positive and try and make that effort to win every game," he said.

"The crowd demands it and the club demands it, and we try that but sometimes it doesn't work."

Wits coach Gavin Hunt was frustrated with his team's performance after they struggled to capitalise on their opportunities up front.

The Students were level with five minutes left but Lehlohonolo Majoro buried a deflected header to hand the visitors their second defeat of the league campaign.

"I think we were a different class," Hunt said.

"They played from such a deep position all night, we had them in their half and we wanted to play, but our final ball let us down all the time.

"How we didn't win the game boggles the mind."

Hunt remained positive his outfit could regain their momentum ahead of the mid-season break.

"We'll keep going. There's a good spirit in the club and everybody wants to win so let's see how we go."