Cape Town – Stuart Baxter was pleased to have seen a “decent performance” shown second string Kaizer Chiefs side in the Macufe Cup.
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Chiefs lost on penalties to Bloemfontein Celtic after both sides we’re levelled after the 90 minutes.
Speaking to Chiefs’ website, Baxter felt his side played particularly well after 12 of Amakhosi's first team players did not make the trip to participate with the team.
"The game itself was good for the supporters,” said Baxter.
“We started well and I thought our lads did well. We then lost our shape towards the end of the first half and they took over until they scored. We regrouped quickly and it became an end to end affair."
"We left about 12 players at home. Celtic are a good opposition hence I felt we played well."
With Itumeleng Khune nearing his return from injury, Baxter had been relying on Brilliant Khuzwayo and now has also been giving Riyaad Pieterse some game time as well - the two keepers shared the poles on each half.
"Both keepers did well with some fine saves. Their keeper also saved some of our goal bound shots.”
Baxter was happy to give some newer players a go at Chiefs’ system and is confident that players will only improve from here on out.
“Some of our players have still a lot to learn about our system of play. Players like Phakamani Mngadi and Ovidy Karuru for example will catch up with the rest of the squad soon. They will be going forward after this game knowing where they need to improve and consolidate."
“The players will work hard knowing they have to fight to get into the starting eleven. I'm happy they are finding their feet."