Kaizer Chiefs’ MTN8 triumph and impressive start in the Premiership has justified their decision not to make major new signings during the transfer window period, says defender Tefu Mashamaite.
The central defender believes having a big squad does not guarantee success, instead, it could bring disharmony to the team. Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter has used the same group of players for just over two seasons now, the former Bafana Bafana coach making a few additions where he deems it necessary. It’s worked quite well for him, the club winning three titles since his appointment – the league title, Nedbank Cup and most recently, the MTN8.
Mashamaite says the players have come to understand each other very well, and now know their team- mates’ strengths and weaknesses having spent a lot of time together on and off the pitch.
“Sometimes you sign players and they come through and maybe they do the job, which then justifies your decision to sign many players. But sometimes it can affect the harmony in the team. I have known most of the guys for the last four years. I know their strengths and weaknesses. It helps when it comes to what we do on the field of play.
“If you look carefully, we still have the same players. We just add here and there when it’s necessary. People are coming to understand that now,” the former Bidvest Wits captain said.
It’s clear there is a very good understanding in central defence between Mashamaite and his partner, Eric Mathoho.
Amakhosi did not concede a goal on their way to lifting the MTN8 trophy and they’ve just let in two goals in the six league matches they’ve played.
“I have been here for four years and I know my teammates. The coach came in three seasons ago and introduced his philosophy and his style of play. We still have the same foundation. There is a combination of three or four players who really understand and find each other on the field.”
Amakhosi now have to put their MTN8 triumph behind them and get back to league action this weekend. They face Steve Komphela’s unpredictable Maritzburg United side at FNB Stadium on Saturday (8.15pm), with a record of 10 straight wins since the start of the season.
“It’s an impressive start, but Amakhosi know not to get ahead of themselves after losing the title to Mamelodi Sundowns last season, having had a big lead at the top,” said Mashamaite.
“This 10-game unbeaten streak is hyped up by the media. We do not concentrate on it. Last season I was surprised we were on seven or eight straight wins and suddenly there was this hullabaloo. We have learnt a lot from that.
“Once you start thinking about that, you are always looking behind your back, thinking who is going to beat us and so on. We have to stay focused and play good football. If we drift, then things will start falling apart.
“The more we go unbeaten, the more teams will want to beat us. So it’s an extra motivation for us. We become more aware and we prepare better for that,” said the 29-year-old.
Maritzburg are sixth in the Premiership table, with one defeat in their six matches so far.
They will certainly provide a stern test for home side Amakhosi. - The Star