Leopards back in action, and ready to take on rivals later this month

LIMPOPO – “We are happy that coach Papic is back. The players wanted to prove themselves as capable and competent for him.,” said Black Leopards’ assistant coach, Joel Masutha after the victory against Vasco da Gama on Saturday.

Black Leopards redeemed their tarnishing position when they won 2-0 against Vasco da Gama at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday.

It was coach Kostadin Papic’s first match as he was signed a season contract with Lidoda Duvha last week Friday.

The win re-energised the morale in the Leopards camp as the team recently lost four games in a row unnecessarily.

Leopards’ first goal came in the first half through a powerful header from their attacking midfielder, Roggert Nyundu, after a good pass from Themba Mabuyango, leaving the visitors’ goalkeeper, Steven Hoffman, flat-footed.

Vasco da Gama continued with their pattern of playing long balls and using its wings effectively to crack Leopards’ defense. Lidoda Duvha defenders, especially Djunga Munganga was always on the run to block Sikhumbuzo Mazibuko’s trail who was shaking their wall.

Mazibuko almost equalised through a counter attack before halftime and their keeper, Vincent Moto, did exceptionally well when he flicked the ball over the goalposts.

After the interval, Vasco da Gama wanted to level the score but their striker, Mbulelo Wambi failed to put the ball in the net after making a good turn that confused Leopards’ defence.

There was a go in the middle of the park that allowed the Cape side to apply more pressure as Leopards’ midfielder, Leonard Ntshangase, was always losing the balls.

Ntshangase, who was not controlling the game like before, scored the second goal with a powerful ranged grass-cutter.

The team is now looking for a win in their match against Witbank Spurs on Saturday, 21 November at Puma Rugby Stadium.

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Papic returns to Black Leopards