Arthur Zwane: Respect cost AmaZulu against Kaizer Chiefs

Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya handed Usuthu the lead in the 21st minute, but Chiefs hit back through Mduduzi Shabalala before Glody Lilepo wasted a golden chance from the penalty spot.

Reflecting on the result, Zwane felt his side's cautious approach allowed the Soweto giants to grow into the game.

"I think the plan was obviously to let Kaizer Chiefs have the ball and wait for the right moment," Zwane told SuperSport TV.

"We had those moments, but whenever we had transition moments to hurt them, we gave the ball back.

"There's one just now in stoppage time - it's five versus two, and we don't take it. Most of the chances they created were from our own turnovers. Chiefs are a good team, they can keep the ball and wait for the right moment, and we made it easier for them."

The former Chiefs coach also lamented defensive lapses, particularly in the build-up to Shabalala's equaliser.

"You look at the goal we conceded - Keegan was there, but he missed the ball completely. To be honest, we gave them too much respect. Had we exerted ourselves more, like in our previous game, we could've gotten something more out of it."

Despite his disappointment, Zwane praised his players' commitment.

"Tough luck, but credit to the boys. They fought and gave everything. Towards the end the energy levels dropped, we made mistakes, but our goalkeeper kept us in the game. He did everything today."