‘We need to set up VAR’ – Kaizer Chiefs coach Da Cruz makes PSL plea

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has become the latest coach to call for the introduction of VAR in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

Da Cruz made the call after his side were held to a 1-1 draw by Polokwane City at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

The result saw Amakhosi drop to fourth place in the Betway Premiership standings, with Chiefs once again left frustrated by controversial refereeing decisions.

Chiefs fitness trainer Julien Le Heran, who also acted as Da Cruz’s translator after the match, revealed that the coach believes VAR would help improve refereeing standards in the PSL.

“He says also just to finish, also to develop the PSL, to help our referees, we need to set up the VAR,” Da Cruz said.

“He says because against Richards Bay, one offside, there was no offside and then we could score goals. Against Siwelele, the goal of [Wandile] Duba was a goal and today there was a penalty.”

Da Cruz acknowledged that VAR can sometimes work against a team, but believes its primary purpose should be to ensure fairness and help officials make the correct decisions.

The French coach also views the introduction of VAR as a worthwhile long-term investment for the league.

“So, he says if we want to continue to develop the championship, we need to set up the VAR to help our referees.

“Sometimes it can be against us, but for three games it can be with us,” he added through his translator.

Da Cruz looking for VAR as Chiefs drop point

Since taking charge of Kaizer Chiefs, Da Cruz has suffered just one defeat, and the Frenchman will now hope his side can turn their impressive start into a sustained title challenge.

Amakhosi will now turn their attention into the Caf Confederation Cup preliminary round.