KAIZER Chiefs are feeling the heat this season.
The team's assistant coach Cedric Kaze says he won't throw his players under the bus.
He stands by his team, no matter what fans think.
Amakhosi supporters raised their frustration on Wednesday, 1 October, when water bottles were thrown onto the pitch after the team's clash against AmaZulu.
Kaze admitted the heat is part of the job, but insists his players deserve praise, not insults.
"When you feel pressure, that's when you work the hardest. There are sleepless nights. After the AmaZulu game, my whole technical team and I stayed up preparing for Stellenbosch, analysing the game and searching for the right combinations to score goals," Kaze explained.
The coach, who joined Chiefs with full knowledge of the club's massive expectations, said he is ready to carry the weight of the badge.
"I know fans want results, but the truth is those players gave everything. We had 23 shots, eight on target, 510 passes, and 70% possession. Chiefs haven't played like that in four years. Those numbers deserve respect."
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Kaze singled out players often criticised by supporters, including midfielder Sibongiseni "OX" Mthethwa.
"OX is a player who does the dirty jobs others don't want to do. He tracks back, tackles, and fights for the team without asking for glory. He is an unsung hero.
"Even Yusuf Maart was heavily criticised last season but showed big mentality and gave us big performances. These players are working hard, and I will protect them at all costs," Kaze said.
The coach compared the situation to jewellery that an owner no longer appreciates but others admire.
"Sometimes, you don't see the beauty of what you have until someone else points it out. That's how I feel about some of our players. They are special even if fans don't see it yet."
Kaze believes Chiefs are on the right track, despite poor results. He promised supporters that better days are coming.
"The results will come because the team is coming together. I ask the fans to keep believing. We're building something, and it will shine."
For now, Amakhosi boss knows the spotlight is burning hot - and is prepared to take the pressure so his players can focus on football.
