Kaizer Chiefs had to turn to the old guard to hand them a much-needed win and a little pre-Christmas cheer as Siphiwe Tshabalala came off the bench to score a rare headed goal and hand coach Steve Komphela relief as they beat his former club Platinum Stars at the Royal Bafokeng Sport Palace last night.
He stooped low to nod home a perfect cross from Philani Zulu after 72 minutes to break the stalemate and put Chiefs back up among the frontrunners, even if it was their first victory in six league games. They are up to 19 points.
It was only after Tshabalala and Bernard Parker, both dropped from the starting line-up, came on as early changes in the second half that Chiefs came to life.
They proved their importance to the club when their legs are no longer able to provide a consistent performance. But they still have match-winning ability that Chiefs desperately need in this time of turmoil.
Chiefs, after losing in midweek at Chippa United, failed to create any shots on goal in the first half as they laboured despite a lion's share of the possession against their hosts.
The current malaise blighting the domestic game, devoid of goals, entertainment and spark, was all too vividly illustrated in a boring first half
There was an air of caution, even nervousness about Chiefs' approach, looking too scared to try anything innovative should it backfire. But they still managed to turn over possession frequently, miscue their passes and fail to set up any decent chances.
But once Parker and Tshabalala were on, it was a whole different side as the two veterans sent a clear message to their coach about their longevity...