Cape Town - Kaizer Chiefs coach Ernst Middendorp clarified that Khama Billiat was injured and was forced to be replaced in the Amakhosi's 1-0 victory over Maritzburg United on Saturday.

A goal in the 50th minute by Dumisani Zuma gave the Soweto giants maximum points and moved them into sixth position on the Absa Premiership table.

A big talking point after the game however was that star forward Khama Billiat was substituted at the half-time interval with teenager Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, who was making his debut in the league.

Middendorp said Billiat suffered an injury and that Ngcobo played a part in the only goal of the game.

The Chiefs mentor said after the game: "We needed a different approach. We had some moments where I'm missing someone to drive into the front.

"He (Billiat) was injured. We have to give him a little bit of time. I know he's a fantastic player, but it didn't work to our advantage.

"I decided to bring in another type of player in the centre with Bernard Parker co-operating with a little more power and more heavyweight, and with Ngcobo and Zuma light-footed from the side.

"The inverted position from Zuma brought us a goal.

Kaizer Chiefs next face Superpsort United on Friday, March 15.

Kick-off is at 20:00.