Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Dillon Sheppard took over the duties of holding the post-match press conference after the match ended in a 1-1 draw with Stellenbosch on Wednesday at the FNB stadium. This occurred after head coach Fernando da Cruz felt unwell.
Da Cruz led the team to a third consecutive draw in the Betway Premiership tournament against Stellies, allowing the team to remain fourth and unbeaten after eight games. They have accumulated 14 points since the start of the season, securing three wins and five draws.
However, before falling ill, Da Cruz was late for his post-match broadcast duties on SuperSport TV, and Sheppard completely replaced him at the official press conference after a ten-minute wait. The former Bafana Bafana international player explained his manager's absence.
Sheppard stated that 'the coach is sick. He was vomiting, so doctors are checking him to make sure he is okay.' Before falling ill, Da Cruz looked disappointed on the Chiefs' bench as the team had to come back to secure the draw. 'Chiefs' allowed 'Stellies' to take the lead through Sinxolo Khwabe, but then equalized thanks to Mduduzi Shabala, despite missing several chances.
This inefficiency in front of goal followed defensive errors that cost the team dearly during the CAF Cup, where they lost six points in three matches. Sheppard acknowledged that the team's overall difficulties are hard to digest, so they will continue to work hard to ensure the team functions like a well-oiled machine.
Sheppard emphasized that they do not believe settling for one point is acceptable. He explained: 'Every match has its own characteristics and dynamics. Obviously, everyone wants to win a football match. I think we are doing enough to win, but if you look at the types of goals we concede, we need to do better—especially defensively. Statistics show that we rank second or third in chances conceded per game.'
He added that while the team does not concede many chances, opponents score, which requires improvement. Sheppard noted the potential of young player Vandile Duba, who could become the team's top scorer if he capitalized on opportunities. Nevertheless, he assured that they are working to improve these aspects. It is important to note that the team is not losing matches, and there is potential for improvement. They aim to climb higher and accumulate points.
'Chiefs' will focus their attention on the CAF Confederation Cup group stage qualifiers against 'Red Arrows' in the first match on Saturday, which will be held in Zambia. They need to win this match or at least score a goal to maintain important momentum for the return match at home next week.