The pressure on Kaizer Chiefs head coach Arthur Zwane prior to the Soweto derby was palpable and despite the win over Orlando Pirates, Soccer Laduma sources have indicated that Zwane remains under the cosh.
'10111', as the Chiefs coach is fondly known, has not been able to keep a steady set of results and the management at the club are believed to be keeping a close eye on the progress of the team.
This publication reported in edition 1298, available at your nearest outlet, that the Amakhosi hierarchy, who were watching the Soweto derby from the suits at FNB Stadium, did not take kind to the team bowing out of the MTN8 against AmaZulu in the semi-final, on away goals rule, after a two-legged tie.
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The Siya crew has been informed that the mood in Durban among the Chiefs high-ranking officials, after the goalless draw against Usuthu in the second-leg that sealed their fate, was tense and the club have escalated processes to track the progress of the team under Zwane.
The trigger for the Glamour Boys management to take decisive steps is the mixed results in the league followed by the MTN8 exit, which prolongs the long wait for a trophy since 2015.
However, the Siya crew understands that the Chiefs management will give Zwane the support he needs but the club legend, like any other previous coach, will be held accountable, when the league resumes after the FIFA World Cup, should the results not improve.
After his first three months in charge as head coach of Amakhosi, Soccer Laduma looks at the positives and negatives of Zwane's reign and what he needs to succeed.
Positives
Bimenyimana's goal-scoring exploits
Although Chiefs hesitated before signing Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana, the Burundian striker has taken a huge pressure off the shoulders of the Chiefs forward line and ultimately Zwane, with his physical presence and the ability to find the back of the net.
Blom stepping up in defensive midfield
Chiefs initially struggled without a so-called destroyer in midfield and Njabulo Blom's form in that role has been key in allowing the likes of Yusuf Maart to express themselves more in advanced roles, the culmination of which was a sensational long-range goal against Pirates.
Dove integration
New signing Edmilson Dove has fitted well in defence as a left-footed centre-back and has brought stability and balance in the team.
Negatives
Too many goals conceded
Despite Dove coming to the fore, Chiefs have conceded too many goals for a side with league title ambitions.
Zwane's charges have conceded 15 goals in 13 league games.
Goalkeeper changes
Chiefs have changed goalkeepers frequently since the start of the season, something that has not helped build confidence in their back-line.
What Zwane needs to succeed
Zwane has alluded that the club needs to reinforce the squad with a couple of new signings in the January transfer window, with a striker and a right winger prioritized.
What will be more key for Chiefs, however, will be keeping some key players, whose contracts are coming to an end, happy.
The Glamour Boys need to solve the Blom contract saga as soon as possible, especially considering that the academy graduate is eligible to sign a pre-contract elsewhere in January.
Khama Billiat's drop in form should also be a concern for the club and as reported by Soccer Laduma previously, he is one of the players whose contracts are expiring in June next year and his happiness index could revolve around whether his contract is likely to be renewed or not.
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