Sheppard – Chiefs ‘not good enough’ after another draw

Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Dillon Sheppard expressed disappointment after the team's latest draw with Stellenbosch in the Betway Premiership. Despite remaining unbeaten in the league this season, the Cape Town outfit has suffered five draws in their last eight games, leaving them eight points behind second-placed Orlando Pirates and nine points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

Sheppard was present at the post-match press conference because head coach Fernando Da Cruz had fallen ill after the match, vomiting and requiring a doctor to check on his condition.

Sheppard clarified that settling for a point is not an option, emphasizing that each game presents unique challenges and objectives. He believes that Chiefs possess the ability to win but must improve their defensive and attacking abilities. The assistant coach noted that while their opponents are conceding few chances, Chiefs must find ways to prevent goals as well.

Additionally, he highlighted that Wandile Duba had several scoring opportunities but failed to capitalize on them, which is an aspect they need to work on during training sessions.

In the match against Stellenbosch, Chiefs struggled defensively in the first half, with their best chance coming when Duba played a pass to Mduduzi Shabalala. However, the Stellenbosch goalkeeper saved the shot. Sinoxolo Kwayiba scored the opening goal for Stellenbosch in the 48th minute, and Gavin Hunt's side took the lead in the 50th minute.

Despite mounting attacks in the later stages, Chiefs struggled to break through Stellenbosch's defense, as they were too defensively organized. Sheppard admitted that Champions were "a bit back-heavy," with too many players in their defensive line and not enough in attacking positions, leading to missed opportunities in the final third.