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A CASE OF DAVID VS GOLIATH

By Jongile Xuba | 2018-12-16

Madlenya......................................... (1)

Green Mamba................................ (1)

(Madlenya won 3-1 on penalties)

Soccer - It was a case of David versus Goliath as Madlenya shocked Green Mamba in a thrilling Ingwenyama Cup encounter at the Mayaluka Stadium yesterday.

The National First Division side just refused to go down without a fight, something that saw them being first to take the lead during the game.

The goal came in the half hour mark through Thobelani Gamedze who capitalised on a blunder by goalkeeper Sidumo Vilakati. Green Mamba, who were the favourites to win the clash, were more like harmless garden snakes as they failed pose any threat in the early stages of the game. The Correctional Services outfit missed chances and was a bit complacent in possession.

The second half could have seen Madlenya affectionately known as ‘Jozi Gobana’ extend their lead early but Melusi Tfwala headed over the bar, wasting a rare one on one chance with the keeper.

Green Mamba midfielder Mxolisi Mkhontfo eventually found the equaliser in the 55th, unleashing a stunning voley from outside the box. He whizzed past two defenders and shot into the bottom left corner to make it 1-1.

The goal sparked Green Mamba's resurgence as they moved forward with intent displaying their pedigree. Madlenya's Sethu Ngcamphalala forced a brilliant save from Mamba’s goalkeeper who rediscovered his form after a shaky first half.

The game lit up in the last 10 minutes as both teams upped the tempo going back and forth taking shots but to no avail.

The match ended level and went to penalties. Madlenya captain Mndeni Mamba missed the first penalty after a save.

Mkhontfo also missed the opening chance. Christiano Mamba scored the first penalty after three attempts for Madlenya. Mthunzi Mkhontfo was unfortunate to hit the bar in his side’s third spot kick.

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