When Armor FC took a 1–0 lead after opening the scoring in their Hollywoodbets Regional League clash against Alex Black Poison FC, Black Poison’s coach Eric Paul knew the opponent would be on a mission to frustrate his side.

This, according to Paul, was exactly what made Saturday’s clash at the Alex Safe Hub a war.

Read more: Opopo FC keeps its top spot after 2-1 win against Mhlaba FC

“The reason I say it is a war is the tactics that are happening outside the pitch. When they scored, they kicked every ball outside; that was the first half.”

Paul said they were delaying, and their intention was to frustrate. “I knew my boys were going to be frustrated because they want this game.”

Their history of head-to-head clashes shows Armor FC has often punished Alex Black Poison, except last season when the match ended in a goalless draw.

Despite Armor’s tactics, Paul said his side had to keep their heads down and make changes that would later decide the game. This included bringing in nominated substitute Nhlosenhle Sokhela. “I think our number 11 [Sokhela] changed the entire thing, because he’s quicker and he’s smaller in terms of stature.”

He explained the substitution was crucial because Armor’s defenders are giants, and to beat them, Black Poison needed a smaller, swifter player, like Sokhela, to slip through the gaps and into the goal.

Paul noted that giant players often can’t turn as quickly as smaller ones, so he exploited that limitation by prioritising agility over brute force. This second-half strategy echoed the principles of Sun Tzu’s Art of War.

Also read: Gomtown Boyz FC coach targets defensive shape after derby win

Paul highlighted his understanding of both his side’s strengths and Armor’s weaknesses. An understanding that informed his decision to put in Sokhela – a player who seemed like a lesser threat, but ultimately posed the greatest danger to Armor.

While Armor carried their 1–0 lead into the second half, Black Poison’s goalkeeper Wandile Dhlamini equalised after Armor’s goalkeeper Thimandanha Mulaudzi fouled Sokhela in the penalty box, conceding a penalty.

This was quickly followed by Sokhela’s decisive goal in the dying minutes of the showdown.
Reflecting on the game, Paul said the war was not only about tactics; it was about attitude, character, and emotional intelligence.

He said he hopes Saturday’s victory marks the beginning of a new chapter for his side, given how the same opponent has punished them in the past.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!