Proud moment for Kaizer Chiefs as academy graduates dominate squad against Gallants

Kaizer Chiefs’ 1-0 win over Marumo Gallants brought smiles on the faces of the club’s fans but also, it was a proud moment for the club.

Glody Lilepo scored a stunning goal as Chiefs downed Gallants to move to second place on the PSL table with 30 points, just two behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, and one ahead of Orlando Pirates after 15 games.

The Glamour Boys also recorded another clean sheet as their improvement continues this term and during the win, there was also a major highlight.

This is because from the matchday squad of 20 players, Chiefs had eight who came through the ranks at the club, something youth coaches must have been proud of when the team was named.

Who were the academy graduates against Gallants?

To make it even better, five of them were in the starting lineup being Zitha Kwinika and Aden McCarthy, who partnered in central defence, man of the match Lebohang Maboe, who had an exceptional game in central midfield, alongside Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, as well as Mduduzi Shabalala, who played just in front.

Thulani Mabaso, an 81^st minute substitute, played his second league game in the senior team following on his debut against Golden Arrows last week, while goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma and Mfundo Vilakazi were unused substitutes.

Chiefs have been lauded for churning out highly talented players but also blamed for allowing some of them to leave only to flourish elsewhere and return on big money but look to be getting it right given what is being witnessed so far.

With many matches to play this season, as Chiefs are challenging in the PSL, CAF Confederation Cup and Nedbank Cup, there will be more opportunities for their academy graduates.