Black Poison edge past Phuthadichaba despite nervy finish
Black Poison took an early lead but nearly let it slip, surviving a late Phuthadichaba fightback to seal a nervy 2–1 win at Altrec.
Black Poison FC may have walked away with three points at the Altrec Sports Complex on June 7, but their narrow 2–1 victory over Phuthadichaba FC was anything but straightforward.
The Alexandra side, who had expected a more decisive scoreline, were left reflecting on missed chances and lapses in composure that nearly cost them the game.
Black Poison had a good start, asserting control in the opening exchanges. Forward John Maluleke broke the deadlock with a strike that some might have dismissed as fortunate, but his intent was undeniable because barely minutes later, he doubled the lead, punishing a rattled Phuthadichaba defence still reeling from the shock of his opener.
Read more: Winter Rose chairperson says league glory highlights team’s unmatched consistency
Maluleke’s goals gave Black Poison a commanding position, and by the half-hour mark, the home crowd sensed a win. But football rarely follows the script.
Phuthadichaba regrouped as the first half drew to a close. Their possession improved, though they struggled to get clear chances. Black Poison, leading by 2-0, knew the danger of complacency.
“I knew in the second half the opponent would come harder at us, so we also had to make sure we got another goal,” admitted coach Phathutshedzo Maseko.
The second half brought the turning point. Black Poison conceded a penalty, a lapse that allowed Phuthadichaba to score a goal and reignite the contest. And suddenly, the visitors were within touching distance of an equaliser.
Black Poison had the chance to restore their cushion when awarded a penalty of their own, but the effort went wide, leaving the hosts under mounting pressure.
Also read: Climate Riders and Siya Shova revive Alexandra’s cycling culture
“Missing that penalty left us under unnecessary pressure, especially after we had killed the game early with the first two goals,” Maseko reflected.
His frustration was evident as he reflected on his expectations and the actual reality.
“We thought we would score four or five goals and play very well. But once we got onto the pitch, it was different. The opponents suppressed us a lot.”
Still, Black Poison held firm, surviving Phuthadichaba’s late surge to secure the 2-1 win.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
