Ernst Middendorp left Vodacom Park a happy man on Sunday evening as a Kaizer Chiefs team made up mostly of fringe players defeated a full strength Bloemfontein Celtic team 3-1 to retain the Macufe Cup.

Having already lost twice and drawn once with Phunya Sele Sele this season Chiefs made their intentions clear as they attacked from the onset.

Chiefs took the lead from the penalty spot, as a calm and collected Rene Richards converted to give Chiefs the lead.

Celtic than clawed their way back into the game with a penalty of their own to level matters and set up an exciting climax to a tense game.

Chiefs than took the lead again through Louis Agyemang with the Ghanaian netting his third goal against Celtic in as many games this season.

David Mathebula made certain of victory and ensured Chiefs lifted their first piece of silverware for the season with a goal late on.

Amakhosi coach Ernst Middendorp prounounced himself happy with the result and the performances of many of his players fighting for first team action.

“I mentioned before that a host of players will be given the opportunity to fight their case for first team football and on this performance many players have made a very strong case for themselves” said Coach Ernst Middendorp.

The Amakhosi coach was further buoyed by the fact that defender Cyril Nzama came through the game unscathed which makes the highly experienced defender available for selection for Wednesdays PSL encounter against Santos after being out since early may with an injury.