Ngovhela XI Experience secured a place in the last-16 stage of the King Abraham Pre-Season KO Competition by beating Mavunde Hungry Vultures 4-1 in their opening match at the Sambandou grounds on Saturday.
The game was characterized by wasted scoring opportunities and no goal was seen in the first half.
Vultures were the first to knock on their opponents' door in the eighth minute. Their diminutive striker, Talifhani Nemusula, received a beautiful pass from Fhatuwani Mathavha in the 25-meter area and beat two defenders in a row before trying his luck with a half volley from the edge of the box. The ball missed the target by inches.
XI Experience had their chance in the 18th minute when Tshilidzi Nthangeni lost possession just before he could unleash from inside the box. XI Experience approached the last half with more self-confidence. It came as no surprise when they look the lead in the 59th minute. Thendo Mathobo was on target, following a great pass from Harvest Mashandule.
XI Experience relaxed after scoring the goal. That gave the Hungry Vultures the chance to move forward and invade their territory. Their fast forward, Ritshidze Mmbi, was brought down within the penalty box. That prompted the referee to point at the white spot. Avhafarei Nthatheni beat the keeper with a ground cutter.
Nthatheni was the only player who was warned with a card. The score line remained unchanged until the end of the regulation time and the winner was determined through penalty shootout. XI Experience converted three of their five chances through Mpho Tshigoba, Thendo Mathobo and Unarine Matamela, while Vultures failed to score even one from the white spot.