Kaizer Chiefs legend Siyabonga Nomvethe says fixture congestion should not be used as an excuse for the club's disappointing performance against SuperSport United.
The Glamour Boys were thrashed 4-1 by SuperSport United at FNB Stadium on Tuesday.
Samir Nurkovic and Christian Saile, the latter on loan at Matsatsantsa from Chiefs - did most of the damage in the attacking third.
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Head coach Nabi blamed fatigue for the defeat.
Prior to the Betway Premiership match, his side had only two days to rest following the win over Chippa United in the Nedbank Cup Last 16 on Saturday, while Gavin Hunt's side had six days to prepare.
"4-1? That's a bad scoreline for such a big club. This is not good," charged an unimpressed Nomvethe.
"It doesn't matter if your opponent had more time to rest than you. Chiefs have other players who can step in for those who are tired, so there shouldn't be excuses.
"It's the players' responsibility to win games for the club. If you are afforded an opportunity for game-time, you must make the most of that chance.
"Everyone deserves to play, and everyone has to earn their keep. If you fail to seize that opportunity, it means you are not taking your job seriously," says the man affectionately known as 'Bhele'.
Nomvethe, who enjoyed so much trophy success at Naturena before moving abroad, says though a coach can't always field the same starting XI, it's up to those coming in to maintain the momentum.
"A human body does need to rest.
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"Yesterday's result shows just how much work still needs to be done at Chiefs, especially up front. It's not bad overall, just some minor adjustments needed.
"The coach is not the one playing, it's the players who are on the pitch. If you want to achieve something as a player, you should grab your opportunity with both hands."