Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi started with four new players in Saturdays preseason Toyota Cup against Asante Kotoko. While Amakhosi did not win, losing on penalties to the Ghana side, their performance at Moses Mabhida Stadium looked more coherent and was in stark contrast to the horror show Amakhosi dished up in the same friendly competition against Yanga of Tanzania last year.
We look at how the new players fared:
Thabiso Monyane: The ex-Pirates man was solid throughout. He overlapped on the rare occasion but his primary role was to mark Kotokos Kwame Poku, a battle the right-back can say confidently that he won. Monyane looked very fit and prevented the opposition from launching attacks down his flank. Was assured in his passing and tackling, too.
Aden McCarthy: Having played just one match last season, the left-footed central defender formed a decent partnership with Inacio Miguel. He looked assured with his passes and was so confident to start play at the back, with keeper Brendon Petersen trusting him. The missed spot-kick was the only blot on an otherwise perfect copybook. Could have a big season ahead.
Nkanyiso Shinga: Looked comfortable defensively and offensively, despite initial jitters which saw him lose the ball. Shinga managed to contain Kotokos dangerous winger Albert Amoah. The Chiefs number 74 was cheered on as he displayed silky skills towards the end of the game. Should solve Amakhosis well-documented problems down the left flank.