Prals Heritage Games seniors’ last 32 action

Palm Ridge team Amazayoni FC is still in the run for the Palm Ridge Really Active Lifestyle (Prals) Heritage Games title after a narrow 4-3 victory against Mhlophe FC on October 22 at Ground D, Palm Ridge.

Mhlophe FC started chasing the game after Shaka Zulu Mazibuko opened the score line for Amazayoni FC in the game’s early minutes.

Mthokozisi ‘Shembe’ Khumalo equalised within three minutes for Mhlophe FC before Amazayoni’s Mshini ‘Ndiza’ Tsetse Lethuli added another goal from a free kick.

Amazayoni extended their lead to 3-1 in the second half when Ntando ‘Mbape’ Mbele scored the third goal. Mhlophe FC tried their best to remain in the game, and Bandile ‘Shelela’ Ntshangase attempted to give his side a fighting chance with a brace.

Mbele did not take it lying down. He closed the game with a brace too and concluded the game 4-3.
The chairperson of Mhlophe FC, Wiseman Khalishwayo, said they used the 4-5-1 formation and planned to attack with build-ups because they played without a striker.

“The players we normally put upfront were not available. One is now playing in the SAB League with a Limpopo team named Flamingo FC. The other one went home during the school holidays and got a piece job,” said Khalishwayo.

He said the striker they called also disappointed them after he cancelled his attendance at the 11th hour.

“It forced us to use Gananda Mthethwa as a false nine with support from the box-to-box midfielders. We had one anchor who could safeguard our defence.”

Coach Xolani ‘Disco’ Khoza of Amazayoni FC said the game was tough and as a result, he had to change the formation twice.

“We started with the 4-1-5 formation, but I had to change it to 5-5 with five defenders and five midfielders. We called our anchor back to the defence when I noticed they were attacking with three strikers in the second half,” said Khoza.

He said this was their first time competing with the senior team because they usually affiliate with the U21 division.

“We are not under pressure. I told my boys to enjoy the games, but the only thing I did not want was to be knocked out in the top 48.”

Match results (October 21 to 22)

• Protea Amagents won on penalties after a 0-0 draw against Jozi Express.

• John Wick FC also won on penalties after an entertaining 1-1 draw against Norway FC.

• Molototsi FC 1-2 FS Vultures.

• Amaramparampa FC 1-2 Wattville FC.

• Tricky Boys 3-0 Villa Marseille.

• Isicathulo Saka Madam 0-3 the Rock FC.