Former Kaizer Chiefs boss Steve Komphela says he feels sorry for Ernst Middendorp following the German’s departure from Naturena, adding it was a matter of 30 minutes that ruined his season.

The German was relieved of his duties at Chiefs after his side missed out on the Absa Premiership title to Mamelodi Sundowns.

Chiefs needed all three points against Baroka FC on the last day of the 2019-20 season but could only manage a 1-1 draw, while Sundowns trashed Black Leopards to edge Chiefs to the title.

Speaking during a Carling Black Label event in Johannesburg on Friday, Komphela said being a coach is sometimes a thankless job.

“They were almost there. It was just a matter of 30 minutes and I felt so sorry for Ernst Middendorp. Our job is a thankless job,” Komphela said.

“I felt so sorry for Ernst because who could ever go through that? You’re on top of the log for the whole season, convincingly so, you have a gap of double digits, with 30 minutes to go, and then you lose it.

“My man, I still respect him for the strength he portrayed. But listen, it’s part of the game. It could have happened to anyone.”

Meanwhile, the former Chiefs coach has congratulated Gavin Hunt for landing one of the top coaching jobs in South Africa.

“Let me take this opportunity to congratulate Gavin Hunt and wish him all the best. A very close friend of mine, make no mistake,” he added.

“I don’t think, with utmost respect to all available coaches in the country, I don’t think there is anyone more deserving. He deserves the shot as well. He has the pedigree.”