Wednesday night was an evening of two tales. We saw the new champions thunder their way into the history books for a record-extending title run after a magnificent three-goal display to round off a potent season. On the other side of Gauteng, we watched a toothless Kaizer Chiefs grind out another goalless draw, and the defending champions seemed a shadow of their former selves. Hardly anyone, Chiefs and non-Chiefs fans alike, can recognise the once-mighty Amakhosi.
It seems the slump in performance is being recognised by supporters of other teams as well. The comments below, taken from Kaizer Chiefs official Facebook group, are a good indication of the mood among the Khosi Nation. No names are included to respect the privacy of the group's members.
"This is not the Kaizer Chiefs I know... I'm a Bucs fan and used to be scared of Chiefs, but the team has lost dignity since Komphela took over… I have nothing against Chiefs, but it's sad to see such a big team draw and lose to small teams."
Although this next comment is not factually correct, it is a good showing of humour and how long it feels like it's been since Chiefs last won a game.
"11 games, 1 win, sies! The last time Chiefs won a match, Malema was still in the ANC and Nene was minister of finance."
This final comment is a question of the squad's strength in terms of players.
"2 finals = no cup. League = useless. Players signed to improve Chiefs = William Twala. Last season, top goalscorer was Mandla Masango with 7 goals. This season it's Katsande with 6. Next season, it will be Khune."
Even though these thoughts are nothing new – they are the same complaints that have been ringing in the ears of management the whole season – it is still a sad day as the goalless streak continues and no real prospects for improvement can be seen on the horizon….
"Being a Chiefs fan was joy. So many legends, being cup specialists. Recruiting youngster to legends. Thabo Mooki, Frank Makua. Brian Baloyi. Rothman's Cup memories. BP Top 8 finals. Coca-Cola Cup final beating Jomo Cosmos 5 - 0. We are rich of memories. That is all we have these days. Players showing zero passion."
Furthermore, one needs no more evidence to see the distaste of Chiefs at the moment than to see the barren orange chairs at FNB Stadium last night. South African supporters tend to vote with their feet, and last night's showing leaves a hole in the heart of any supporter who remembers the days when a Chiefs vs Celtic game would be played passionately in front of a packed house. Not slugged out in front of a couple hundred supporters who have every right to demand their money back…
What needs to be done to rectify the situation at Kaizer Chiefs?
