Black Leopards' supporters left the Makhulong Stadium in Thembisa with sore hearts after their team donated significant league points to Highlands Park, following their 1-2 defeat in their National First Division League match on Sunday.
Although Lidoda duvha were the first to blow the trumpet, things gradually started going pear-shaped for them. Leopards opened their account through Khuliso Mudau in the 24th minute. He gave the ball the final touch, following Mwape Musonda's square pass. The Thohoyandou outfit enjoyed the 1-0 lead until the referee blew the half-time whistle.
Highlands Park fought back via Peter Shalulile and Thabo Shatlale in the opening minutes of the last half. Highlands Park were reduced to 10 men in the 74th minute. Their scoring machine, Mothobi Mvalo, was given his marching orders, following a dangerous tackle on Meshack Maphangule.
Black Leopards dropped to the third position on the log after the defeat. Lidoda duvha must now at least hold Jomo Cosmos to a draw to be sure of a promotional playoff place.
Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) restored their pride by beating Uthongathi FC 2-1 at the Thohoyandou Stadium. David Mathebula and Aluwani "Killer" Nedzamba scored for TTM, while Uthongathi's solitary goal came via Menzi Ndwandwe.
Jomo Cosmos secured a place in the promotional playoffs after their 3-2 victory over Super Eagles at the Vosloorus Stadium in Johannesburg. Ubuntu Cape Town went into the relegation quagmire after losing 1-2 to Richards Bay FC at the Umhlatuze Sports Complex in Richards Bay. Ubuntu must now beat TTM at the Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Sunday to escape the relegation axe.
Cape Town All Stars drew 1-1 with Royal Eagles. Real Kings were too good for Mthatha Bucks, whom they beat 2-0. Pretoria University lost 2-3 to Stellenbosch FC at the Absa Tuks Stadium in Pretoria. Witbank Spurs crushed Mbombela United 1-0 at the Puma Rugby Stadium in Emalahleni.