Alex Black Poison secured three well-needed points to stay in contention for the Hollywoodbets Regional League’s second spot, currently held by Gomtown Boyz. Their 3-1 win against Loyo Stars FC on Sunday was crucial; it not only gave them maximum points, but also ensured that they get a breathing room over two teams that lag by no more than three points.

When Loyo Stars and Black Poison took to the pitch, Loyo Stars FC’s Lesego Sabela opened the scoring, setting the stage for a very contentious first half. After a few minutes of fierce fighting for position, Alex Black Poison FC’s Phakamani Khanyile finally scored, levelling the score to a nail-biting 1-1.

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For much of the first half, both sides shared possession and made attempts to break the deadlock, but neither team managed to increase their lead by halftime.

Minutes into the second half, the teams went back and forth, with Black Poison making it clear that they intended to score. Coach Eric Paul could be heard shouting from the sideline to do just that.

As a man who knew what was at stake, it came as no surprise that he showed no tolerance for even the slightest mistake that could cost Black Poison their third place on the log, especially with the fourth-placed Loyo Stars trailing just one point behind.

Determined not to settle for a draw, Black Poison pressed hard. Deep into the second half, Black Poison’s pressing paid off when Luleka Mnculwane gave Black Poison the lead after beating Loyo Stars’ goalkeeper, Matsobane Mabutsela.

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Although Black Poison held a 2-1 lead, it cannot be denied that Loyo fought to remain in the game. At times, their ball distribution was so immaculate that they capitalised on gaps in Black Poison’s defence to advance, though they lost possession at critical points.

At one point, Loyo’s Kgotsofalo Maboea got a clear chance after receiving a clean square pass from the right flank, but his near-goal header went off target, denying his side the chance to equalise.

Just before the last whistle, Black Poison sealed their victory with Ntokozo Ntshangase’s goal, putting the final nail in Loyo Stars’ coffin.

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