Fernando Da Cruz expects 'unlucky' Kaizer Chiefs to push for Betway Premiership title

Amakhosi have endured a difficult start to their league campaign with just three wins from their opening nine games.

They have lost only once, to Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby last time out, while also suffering elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup in the second qualifying round, in recent encounters.

Speaking after the 2-1 loss to Pirates at the FNB Stadium on Saturday, Da Cruz admitted it was a disappointing defeat, but he isn't losing hope at this early stage of the season.

"I think it is more difficult, after this game (Saturday's loss)," said Da Cruz in the Citizen.

"But they PSL is a long journey. There are 21 games left and when we recover our injured players – we have been unlucky since the beginning of the season, this side will have more consistency of performance."

Chiefs are next in action against Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout Cup quarterfinals this weekend, while the Nedbank Cup starts in January.

"Our young players must learn to have consistency, but it takes time and is a process," added the Chiefs coach.

"We need to go step by step, we are not at this step (of consistency) at the moment, but we will work and will reach this step."