Leaner gets glowing Chiefs coach review after debut

Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Dillon Sheppard has given Renaldo Leaner a thumbs-up after the goalkeeper was handed an opportunity against Golden Arrows.

Leaner was handed his first start for Chiefs in Sunday's Betway Premiership clash at Mbombela Stadium, where he kept a clean sheet as the two sides shared the points.

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The 28-year-old shot-stopper joined the Glamour Boys at the start of the season following his unexpected departure from Sekhukhune United.

Leaner, who appears to be second in the goalkeeping pecking order at Amakhosi, got his opportunity after Brandon Petersen was ruled out through injury.

Sheppard impressed by Leaner

The Bafana Bafana goalkeeper made some important interventions during the match, helping the Soweto giants keep Arrows at bay and secure a point.

Sheppard was quick to acknowledge Leaner's contribution when asked for his assessment of the goalkeeper's debut.

"Very good," Sheppard told journalists.

"His leadership at the back, a couple of crucial saves that kept us in the game, very good.

"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."

Leaner takes his chance

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For Leaner, the clean sheet provided a positive start to life between the posts for Chiefs, with the goalkeeper showing he can be relied upon when called upon.

Chiefs will return to action on October 17 when they face Stellenbosch FC in a Betway Premiership match after the FIFA international break.

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Betway Premiership Dillon Sheppard Golden Arrows Kaizer Chiefs Renaldo Leaner