Coach Fernando Da Cruz remains positive in the face of Amakhosi’s disappointing exit from the MTN8 after losing 1-0 in their quarterfinal against Golden Arrows.

Speaking to the media after the final whistle on Sunday evening, he said, “It’s very disappointing for the players because they put in a lot of effort. Also, for the fans because a lot of them came to the stadium. We had a lot of chances to score but we didn’t take them and unfortunately they scored with their only chance from a cross.

“Regarding our chances,” the French-born coach continued, “we lacked lucidity (composure) inside the box. Even after they scored we had opportunities but we need to work on being calmer in those situations.”

That said, Da Cruz pointed out that he was pleased with his team’s application and their unrelenting desire to give everything until the end.

“I am happy with the mindset of the players,” he stated before reminding everybody that there is still a lot to play for in a season that has only just begun, “We wanted to go further in this tournament and we are disappointed to be eliminated but we still have other competitions to compete in and we will continue to work hard to improve step by step. I want the fans to be proud of the team in the next few weeks.”

With the first of three matches in six days out of the way, Da Cruz is expected to rotate his squad with the likes of Pule Mmodi, Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Dillan Solomons and Asanele Velebayi to be given some game time in the next two outings.

Amakhosi face Sekhukhune United in their opening home fixture in the Betway Premiership at FNB stadium on Wednesday, 12 August at 17:30 before the big clash against Mamelodi Sundowns at the same venue on Saturday, 15 August at 15:00.