Kaizer Chiefs have fallen 12 points behind Mamelodi Sundowns after another inconsistent spell in the league.
A series of draws has proved particularly costly, leaving Amakhosi struggling to keep pace with their title rivals.
FERNANDO DA CRUZ: KAIZER CHIEFS NEED WINNING RUN TO REVIVE TITLE CHALLENGE
Da Cruz admits that the situation has become more complicated following their latest setback. However, the French tactician believes the return of injured players could give his team the consistency they have lacked throughout the campaign.
“It’s more difficult today [Saturday] after this game, but the PSL is a long journey, there are 21 fixtures remaining. When we recover our injured players, where we have been unlucky since the beginning of the season, we will have more consistency in our performances, because we made a lot of draws this season,” Da Cruz said.
The Amakhosi coach believes his team have dropped points in matches where they were capable of collecting maximum points.
However, he also acknowledged that a lack of experience has contributed to their inability to turn promising performances into victories.
For Da Cruz, the immediate priority is getting his injured players back and building the momentum needed to close the gap at the top of the standings.
“Normally, many draws, we deserved to win these games but because of our lack of experience, we didn’t win these games. But we will turn it on our side when we recover our squad and for sure, in one moment we must have some positive dynamic with a few wins in a row to continue this journey. We must keep a positive mindset,” he added.
Chiefs cannot afford many more dropped points if they are serious about challenging for the Betway Premiership title.
With Orlando Pirates and Sundowns setting the pace, Amakhosi need to put together a strong run of results rather than relying on their rivals to slip up.
Da Cruz, however, remains convinced that the campaign is far from over. His message is clear: Chiefs must stay positive, recover their squad and start winning consistently if they are to make a serious challenge for the championship.