Kaizer Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter has lifted the lid on the floodlights disruption that delayed their game away at Maritzburg United, forcing both teams to tweak their preparations as the match kicked off more than an hour late.
It was announced by rights holders SuperSport TV, minutes before the 5.30pm scheduled time that there were no lights at the Harry Gwala Stadium for the evening’s DStv Premiership encounter with technicians working on it.
But the match finally got underway – at 7pm!
“It was really difficult because of the delay and having to sit around in the dressing rooms – three different warms ups, getting food to the players so the energy levels don’t go down,” Baxter told the club’s media department after emerging 1-0 winners.
“But I thought the first 20 minutes were okay in terms of our passing, receiving and running behind their back line. I thought it was quite comfortable, then the next 20 after that were passive from our side. We weren’t as brave either with the ball or our pressing.”
The Englishman has now helped Chiefs register back to back wins in the league, the other having come before the FIFA break against rivals Orlando Pirates.
“I think there were mental issues that the lads have to get a pat on the back that they solved. It had been a long break (international week) and then you come here with lights issues before the game. I am delighted, and now we can go into the next game and start making a bit of a noise,” added Baxter.
View images of the clash in the gallery above.
