Mianzwi Green Hornet booked a place in the final of the Total Challenge KO Competition by beating Matsakali Sky Rangers 4-1 in their semifinal match at the Makwarela Stadium on Sunday.
Rangers looked hopeless from the onset, and Green Hornet scored their first goal in the ninth minute. Phumudzo Mamagwa hooked in the ball, following a mix-up within the Rangers' danger area.
Rangers were soon reduced to 10 men, as their central defender, Jonas Baloyi, was given his marching orders for obstructing Lutendo Matidze in the danger area.
The keeper of Sky Rangers, Master Shibambu, caused an upset a little later. He miskicked the ball after a back pass by a teammate, Emile Chabalala, Instead of clearing the ball away, Shibambu hesitated for too long to clear, until he lost possession. Khaukanani Muswede won the ball and sent the ball straight into the empty net.
The only goal for Sky Rangers came in the 37th minute. Their front runner, Sydney Chauke, was brought down within the box and it was a clear penalty. Terrence Maluleke converted from the spot, to bring the half-time score to 2-1.
The last 20 minutes of the game saw Green Hornet enjoying ball possession, with Rangers chasing the action. It was not surprising when they increased the margin via Phumudzo Mamagwa in the 78th minute. Their fourth goal was scored by Ishmael Khomola late in the game.