Chiefs claimed victory in the Toyota Cup, played at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace, thanks to Mfundo Vilakazi’s first-half strike.
Vilakazi showed good perseverance as he broke into the box and evaded one defensive challenge before firing low into the far corner of the net. The goalkeeper got a hand to the ball but could not keep it out.
“It was a difficult game because we played two starting XIs,” Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz said. “They (Scottland) were at a different physical level from us because they are in the middle of their season and we are in pre-season.
“I am very happy for Vilakazi because he worked hard defensively but was also able to score. It was a difficult win, but a collective win. The players who came in helped the starters, and it was a good mindset from our team.”
Chiefs fans may be concerned after seeing left-back Bradley Cross limping, and Da Cruz said they must be careful with him as he had not had as much of a pre-season as the rest of the squad, having been at the World Cup with Bafana Bafana.
“He is a very important player, but he had a short pre-season and we have to take our time with him. We will see in a few weeks,” he said.
“The next step for the team is recovery over the next few days, then we will start to prepare for the next game on Saturday against promoted Kruger United.”
Chiefs are away in Mbombela for their season opener as they look to improve on their third-place finish last season.
