Da Cruz blames missed chances and Pirates' '12th man' role for Chiefs' derby loss

Kaizer Chiefs lost 2-1 to Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium in the Soweto derby, extending their league winless streak against their rivals to seven matches and their current league winless run to four. Coach Fernando da Cruz said Chiefs should have led 2-0 or 3-0 at half-time but failed to convert their chances. He also criticised referee Luxolo Badi’s officiating, while saying he was pleased with his team’s early application. The defeat increases pressure on Da Cruz, days after Chiefs beat TS Galaxy 3-0 in the Carling Knockout Cup and sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jnr publicly backed him.