Kaizer Chiefs coach Steve Komphela was pleased with his troops’ performance, including a debut for Gustavo Paez as they swept aside Free State Stars 3-1 on Tuesday.

First half goals from Siphiwe Tshabalala, Bernard Parker and a second half goal from Willard Katsande ensured that the match was settled by the time Rooi Mahamutsa pulled one back for Stars.

‘We didn’t start very well, you could see Free State Stars were more comfortable on the ball,’ Komphela said post-match, according to KickOff.

‘Even though, for whatever reason, both teams at the beginning of the match couldn’t keep possession and it took another 20 minutes for us to get into the rhythm. We then started passing the ball and created openings, but in as much as one would say it was a 3-1 [result], it wasn’t as easy as the score [suggests].

‘We could have made it even better, score-wise, but there were moments where towards the end of the first half you could feel them coming through.

‘Maybe I have to go back and look at [the match] with less emotion … But as it is, I felt we could have done better. Yes, we won it, we are happy, but we could have done better.’

Recent signing Gustavo Paez was introduced at the expense of Edmore Chirambadar with half an hour to go, with his coach pleased with what he saw.

‘Also, Gustavo Paez, I’m sure you could see some glimpses of somebody who has qualities or attributes of a good striker, and we are happy. With time he will get there,’ Komphela added.

As a result of the win the Glamour Boys moved up to third on the table with 27 points, one fewer than leaders Cape Town City and Bidvest Wits. However, SuperSport United will move to the top should they beat Golden Arrows on Wednesday at home.