Another glowing review for Chiefs' new man
by Siya Ndlela · KickOffKaizer Chiefs assistant coach Dillon Sheppard delivered his assessment of goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, who started in place of injured Brandon Petersen in Amakhosi’s match against Golden Arrows.
Leaner was thrown straight into the deep end for the Soweto giants' last match, a tightly contested 0-0 draw against Lamontville Golden Arrows at the Mbombela Stadium.
The 28-year-old shot-stopper was given the nod ahead of long-serving keeper Bruce Bvuma, stepping up to fill the massive void left by club captain Brandon Petersen, who is currently sidelined for four to six weeks with a severe knee injury.
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The former Sekhukhune United star commanded his penalty area excellently and produced vital interventions to deny Abafana Bes'thende.
What Sheppard said about Leaner's performance
Speaking to reporters after the final whistle, Sheppard lauded the keeper's immense composure under pressure.
Reflecting on Leaner's performance on the pitch, Sheppard expressed high praise for the debutant.
"Very good. His leadership at the back, a couple of crucial saves that kept us in the game, very good," Sheppard said, as quoted on the club's official website.
"And that's why you have a squad, when players get injured and other players step in, they take the chance. So, very happy for him. He's come in with a lot of confidence and patience, so we kept a clean sheet today, so very good for him."
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What the result means for Chiefs on the log table
Despite the frustrating stalemate that saw Amakhosi extend their unbeaten run but record their fourth draw in five games, Leaner has raised his hand as a pontential starter for the Soweto giants.
Chiefs now sit fourth on the log table with 13 points from their opening seven league fixtures.
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Betway Premiership Dillon Sheppard Kaizer Chiefs Renaldo Leaner