Black Leopards trump Upington FC with dominating performance
The home side strengthened their striking force by introducing Bonginkosi Makhanya at the expense of Thomani Motsoko in the 28th minute.
LIMPOPO – Black Leopards registered their first victory under the guidance of coach Peter Mponda when they narrowly beat Upington City 1-0 in their Motsepe Foundation Championship league match which was played at Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday.
Leopards took the game to the visitors from the Cape from the first whistle, forcing the opposition’s defence to abandon their positions and group themselves at the back. The home side threatened to score in the fourth minute but their diminutive left-footed striker, Nkosiyapo Mavundla went loose from the far left corner after beating two defenders in a row, and unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the box.
The Zulus’ keeper, Sage Stephens, braved the shot and pulled off a brilliant save.
The home side strengthened their striking force by introducing Bonginkosi Makhanya at the expense of Thomani Motsoko in the 28th minute. Realising the Lidoda Duvha power, City gave their all by replacing Tebogo Quinisile with Trevor Mokwena.The goal that earned Leopards three points came two minutes before the end of regulation time.
Bethuel Nzeu hooked the ball in, following a heartbreaking scramble within the box. Leopards keeper Mashudu Makhavhu, was reduced to a mere spectator in the last 15 minutes of the first half. At that stage, Leopards were all over the Cape side.
Although Leopards enjoyed more ball possession in the first half, their strikers were not lucky enough to find the net.
Leopards affected another change to their starting 11, four minutes into the last half, by replacing Mulisa Ramusia and Thabana Mabena with Ofentse Raphadu and Vincent Mashego. Leopards started playing defensive football and relied on counter-attacks.
City lost Carl Lark through injury in the 76th minute and he was replaced with Victor Bakah.
