Kaizer Chiefs have thrown the Absa Premiership title race wide open following their 3-1 defeat by Bloemfontein Celtic at Tuks Stadium, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.

The Soweto giants failed to make it two wins in a row after conceding a defeat to Phunya Sele Sele, who netted through a brace from Motebang Sera and a goal by Victor Letsoalo, while Eric Mathoho scored what proved to be a consolation goal.

Middendorp’s squad selection

Ernst Middendorp made five changes to his side that came back to beat Polokwane City 3-2 this past weekend.

And following Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Willard Katsande and Bernard Parker’s impressive performances coming off the bench against Rise and Shine, the German mentor handed them starting berths while Leonardo Castro returned to the squad alongside Khama Billiat and Samir Nurkovic.

However, Amakhosi were unable to emulate the same fighting spirit they showed in the previous game and failed to walk away with any points.

PSL title race wide open

Amakhosi were presented with the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the league standings to nine points after defeating Polokwane.

But Chiefs failed to make the most of their chances against Celtic, leaving them six points clear of second place Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand, and eight points ahead of SuperSport United in third place.

Substituting Manyama at half time

Lebogang Manyama has been one of Amakhosi’s standout performers this campaign and already bagged seven goals and 10 assists for Amakhosi.

However, the Chiefs attacker was taken off at half time and replaced by Yagan Sasman. It was not a tactical decision by Middendorp but a forced change, as Manyama played with a niggling hamstring after he started anyway.

What next for Amakhosi?

The Glamour Boys will be hoping to bounce back and earn maximum points when they welcome an unpredictable Stellenbosch FC side to the Orlando Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off set for 6pm.