Kaizer Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane has identified Mmonapule Saleng’s weakness after he “disappeared” following the introduction of Dillan Solomons on Saturday.
Zwane was speaking after they lost 5-4 on penalties to their crosstown rivals Orlando Pirates on Saturday, 12 November, at the FNB Stadium.
The two Soweto giants had played a goalless draw in regulation time before it went to the penalty shootout.
Zwane said the in-form Saleng struggled to contain Solomons on the wing when he came on as a defender.
“When Solomons came in, there was no more Saleng. I didn’t see Saleng, and I think he was substituted. It was pound for pound. We know he can’t defend, so Solly could go forward,” explained Zwane.
The Cheifs mentor believes Saleng’s weakness allowed the former Swallows winger to venture forward and aid Amakhosi’s attack.
ARTHUR ZWANE ON ERIC MATHOHO
Zwane also spoke about veteran defender Eric Mathoho who got his first taste of action this season in the Carling Black Label Cup.
Mathoho was voted by fans to start the match against Pirates and did not disappoint.
“It’s a bit difficult because the selection becomes more tougher and tougher when you look at how Tower played today.
“When you look back, he hasn’t played this season, and he went in there and led by example.
“I’m also happy, but it tells you what I said before regarding discipline, dedication and commitment from our boys.”
Zwane added that they would continue to look for the best defence pairing. Zitha Kwinika, Siyabonga Ngezana and Edmilson Dove have all slotted in central defence this season.
“It’s competition for places. We’ll always look for the best central pairing that can also give us the balance in terms of the full-backs. We want to attack as a team,” he concluded.
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