Kaizer Chiefs fans protest as Akumu is benched

Kenyan international Anthony Akumu failed to feature as he started from the bench in Kaizer Chiefs 2-2 stalemate against Bloemfontein Celtic with fans protesting head coach Gavin Hunt’s team selection.

This was the first time Akumu was making it to the bench since the 1-0 win over sworn enemies Orlando Pirates on Tuesday 23 March.

The former Gor Mahia midfielder has been missing in action for seven games including two CAF Champions League ties against Wydad Casablanca and Horoya.

Hunt’s team selections left Chiefs fans disgruntled with a section of them taking to social media to question why he benched Akumu in the clash.

“I don't understand why is Agay and Mphahlale not starting even after blunders from both these guys,” said one of the Chiefs fans.

“He should have put Agay instead of Mathoho, Zuma instead of Manyama, Mphahlele instead of Cardoso and Frosler instead of Zulu... I know he can operate as a left-back,” lamented Felix Naimu.

Chiefs had a blistering start to the game with Happy Mashiane needing only three minutes to break the deadlock through a sumptuous freekick that found the top corner.

Hunt’s men doubled their lead 10 minutes later through Eric Matoho who nodded in the ball in from a Lebogang Manyama cross.

The crazy opening 25 minutes witnessed another goal as Neo Maema pulled one goal back for Celtic as Chiefs went into the break with a 1-2 lead.

Celtic were awarded a penalty in the 54th minute after Siyabonga Ngezana brought down half time substitute Tebonga Potsane.

Sepana Letsoalo stepped up to take the penalty and held his nerve to send Bruce Bvuma the wrong way after he came on at halftime to replace Daniel Akpeyi in goal.

Clarke Oduor

Kenyan international Clarke Oduor was again an unused sub for Barnsley in their 2-0 defeat to Preston North End in the English Championship.

A goal in either half from Jordan Storey and Ched Evans secured the win for Preston with Barnsley already sealing a place in the Championship Promotion Play-Offs.

Makwatta and Ian

Kenyan internationals John Makwatta and Ian Otieno started for Zesco United in the 0-2 win over Indeni FC in the Zambian Super League.

Second-half goals from Phiri Mwila and Chitiya Mususu ensured Zesco made it nine wins in a row to open up a 10-point gap at the summit of the league.

Makwatta was withdrawn in the 79th minute with Enock Sakala coming on to replace him as Jesse Were missed from the matchday squad.