Banyana Coach Desiree Ellis Defends Keeper Kaylin Swart Amid Recent Criticism

• Banyana coach Desiree Ellis defended Kaylin Swart after fans criticised the keeper's performance
• Supporters of the South African side have called for Andile Dlamini to replace her for the Italy game
• Ellis believes that organisational problems were to blame for Banyana conceding against Sweden

Banyana Banyana will take on Italy in their final FIFA Women’s World Cup group game, needing a win to qualify for the tournament's knockout stages.

With the pressure on the side, many fans have called on Desiree Ellis to play Andile Dlamini instead of Kaylin Swart.

Swart, who was in goal for the games against Sweden and Argentina, has come under a lot of criticism for her performances.

Banyana gave up a one-goal lead against Sweden as they lost 2-1 before surrendering a two-goal lead against Argentina. As noted by SuperSport.com, Argentina scored two goals in five minutes to draw the game.

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With Swart coming under fire for the results, coach Ellis has come out supporting the keeper, defending her against the recent criticism, Kick Off noted.

“I’m not sure what that criticism is based on because if we look at Kaylin’s involvement, including the back passes, it is higher than many of the other goalkeepers in the tournament,” she said.

“We selected Kaylin specifically to be able to assist us when we play the ball back, to get us on the front as well,” she added.

Ellis also touched on the concerns that the Swedes 'bullied' Swart and that Dlamini could have done a better job because she is taller.

The South African manager insisted height wasn’t a problem in the game and it was more of an organisational issue.

Swart criticised by Banyana fans

Banyana Banyana goalkeeper, Kaylin Swart is not the most popular person in the country at the moment, Sports Brief also reported.

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The shot-stopper came under criticism for her performances in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, as South Africa once again let a lead slip.

With Swart again conceding crucial goals and Banyana dropping points, fans have turned on the keeper, comparing her with Harry Maguire.