Kaizer Chiefs’ Stuart Baxter was not the happiest coach despite his side beating Edu Sports 4-0 in a Nedbank Cup, Last 32 match at FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
A hat-trick from Siphelele Mthembu and goal from Katlego Mphela handed the Amakhosi the win.
Baxter admitted that he was not entirely happy with his side’s first half showing, but blamed it on the surface of the FNB stadium.
“The first half was a difficult game because the pitch was very greasy,” said Baxter.
“I think both teams had a bit of a problem with that.
“I wasn’t too happy with the way we were passing the ball and securing the ball in the first half.
Baxter, though, added that the second half restored his faith in the team and he was happy with Siphelele Mthembu’s showing in front of goal.
“We played better in the second half and we should have converted more of our chances,” added Baxter.
“Siphelele did well, he got himself a hat trick. All credit to him.
“The longer the game went, the more tired our opponents became.
“The more we did our job properly, we looked professional.
“It was an exercise. We did ok and we got through to the next round.”
Baxter was also full of praise for substitute Pule Ekstein who created the third goal and Siphiwe Tshabalala who created the second and fourth goals.
“Games like this give someone the chance to put his hand up and say ‘hey, don’t forget me’, I think Pule did that when he came on and Siphelele did that,” continued Baxter.
“The best player tonight was Shabba by a mile.
“He gave a very professional performance and he lifted the quality of the game.”