‘We weren’t outclassed’: Makhoye rues ‘cheap goals’ against Chiefs

Orbit College FC head coach Pogiso Makhoye insists the 3-1 scoreline in their Easter Monday defeat to Kaizer Chiefs was “deceiving,” claiming his side handed the Soweto giants an easy victory through defensive lapses.

Despite taking an early lead at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Orbit collapsed to their 15th defeat of the campaign—the highest loss tally in the Betway Premiership this season. The result leaves the side languishing in 15th place with just seven games remaining to salvage their top-flight status.

Speaking to the media after the match, a frustrated Makhoye argued that the performance didn’t match the final result.

Makhoye on Chiefs loss: ‘We played into their hands’

“I think even the score is deceiving. We came here, and we competed,” Makhoye said. “It’s not like we were outclassed; what we did was give them cheap goals. It is very frustrating because, in our position, we need to fight for every point.”

Makhoye noted that his tactical plan worked to perfection for the opening half-hour before his players retreated too far into their own half.

“After we took the lead, we dropped our performance and defended too deeply, conceding soft goals. In the second half, we played into their hands by opting for too many long balls,” he explained.

Despite the result, Makhoye was full of praise for the atmosphere in Gqeberha. With Olympia Park Stadium occasionally unavailable, the coach suggested the club would be eager to return to the coast.

“It was marvellous… it felt like a home away from home. The pitch was perfect. If we cannot host at Olympia Park, this stadium is an excellent alternative. I would definitely come back here.”

The Relegation Reality For Orbit After Chiefs Defeat

The loss marks a third consecutive defeat for Orbit, who remain stuck on 18 points. While the club hierarchy recently went on record to back Makhoye to turn their fortunes around, time is running out.

By contrast, the victory marks a resurgence for Kaizer Chiefs, who have now recorded three straight wins as they climb the table.