Kaizer Chiefs have slipped to third in the Betway Premiership standings following their 2-2 draw with Richards Bay, allowing Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns to move two points clear at the top.
The Amakhosi made an encouraging start to the campaign and were among the early pace-setters. However, they have now dropped points in consecutive league matches after drawing 1-1 with Sundowns before being held by Richards Bay.
There is no reason for panic yet. Chiefs remain just two points behind the joint leaders, but another poor result could see the gap widen quickly.
With their MTN8 campaign already over, the league is now their primary focus before the CAF Confederation Cup becomes another important part of their schedule.
How Kaizer Chiefs can fight for the title
If Chiefs are to remain in the title race, one area they must improve is their defence.
Going forward, Amakhosi have shown plenty of quality. Their attack has looked dangerous, while the midfield has also provided a strong platform. It is at the back where they continue to look vulnerable.
The latest example came against Richards Bay where Kaizer Chiefs conceded an early goal after goalkeeper Brandon Petersen made a costly error when attempting to play out from the back.
Petersen’s mistake allowed Nqaba Xulu to punish Chiefs inside the opening eight minutes.
It was another setback for a goalkeeper whose confidence appears to have taken a knock following recent errors. That could make Petersen a target for opposition strikers in the coming matches.
Simply replacing the goalkeeper may not be the answer as Kaizer Chiefs need greater stability in front of him. A settled and reliable centre-back pairing, combined with the return of a fully fit left-back, could go a long way towards improving the team’s defensive structure.
The attack is giving Amakhosi enough to compete near the top of the table. The midfield is also capable of controlling games. But if the defence continues to concede avoidable goals, their rivals will eventually create a significant gap.
The message for Kaizer Chiefs is therefore simple: reset, tighten up at the back and make the most of the next league fixture.
The title race is still wide open, but the Amakhosi cannot afford to keep giving their rivals opportunities to pull away.
Can Amakhosi challenge for the league?
