Kaizer Chiefs suffered a 2-0 defeat to Siwelele on Wednesday evening at the Toyota Stadium, with familiar faces playing a key role in their downfall.
Former Amakhosi winger Tebogo Potsane was among the scorers, finding the net against his old club in a performance that underlined what Chiefs may have lost when they released him last year.
His goal celebration suggested a point to prove, although he later showed respect by greeting the Chiefs bench when substituted.
Potsane was not the only ex-Chiefs player involved on the night.
Samkelo Zwane and Happy Mashiane, both currently on loan at the Free State-based side, also featured. However, based on current circumstances, their long-term futures at Naturena appear uncertain.
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze pointed to the lingering effects of the Soweto Derby as a major factor behind the defeat, suggesting his players struggled to mentally reset after the high-intensity clash.
“I said that it was a game of two halves. We were not there in the first half. From the build-up to both our offensive and defensive play, we were off and got punished,” Kaze told after the match.
“Our reaction came too late. We spoke about needing to move on from the derby and focus on this game because it was always going to be tough, and that’s exactly what happened.
“We only got into the game late, and that’s an area we need to improve consistency in our mindset, our behaviour, and how we approach matches going forward,” he said.
Kaizer Chiefs supporters want answers
Some Chiefs supporters questioned the decision to rest Siphesihle Ndlovu, who had impressed in the Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates the previous week.
The midfielder’s absence was felt, particularly as Amakhosi struggled to impose themselves in midfield.