While others criticised Kaizer Chiefs' 1-0 win over Golden Arrows as a forgettable victory, there was a contrast suggesting that Amakhosi proved that they are genuine title material in the Absa Premiership championship race.
Coach Ernst Middendorp revealed the club's "ingredient of success" to winning matches that his side, at times, look like getting nothing out of them.
"After I saw the Golden Arrows team from last week and seeing the line-up, it was as expected. We worked on our spacing and movement off the ball, knowing a certain concept from Arrows will come our way. They made it very difficult for us – most of the doors were closed. I was very clear that that one ingredient of success would be to be patient and not in any way get out of structure," Middendorp told reporters.
"And it's good that it happened in the final seconds, we were the more active team, the one that wanted to win more than the opponent. We wanted the three points and we take it. I am okay with it."
It wasn't until the very last few seconds of the match that Lebogang Manyama found the back of the net to ensure Chiefs went 10 points clear at the summit.
"We had an idea to go a certain way. They (Arrows) had a certain idea and knowing what we are doing, where we are strong with our ambitions and skills. Then you have a certain parameter, it's part of the game. It was not a delicious meal, let's be clear and I think everyone saw the game. But to have an open game, up and down and celebrate, you need two partners, two teams that have a go at each other. I won't make any comments about the other parameter, we only have to focus on ourselves," Middendorp said.
