Mukula Young Santos held the log leaders, Tshifudi XI Experience, to a thrilling 2-2 draw in their SAB League match at the Mukula Tshidzani-tsha-Maria grounds on Saturday.
Santos took the game to their opponents from the first whistle. Their vastly experienced midfielder, Phathutshedzo Takalani, was a marvel to watch. He distributed defence-splitting passes to the goal poachers from time to time. It was not surprising when they took the lead after just 20 minutes of play.
Jaco Ramudzuli forced his way through the defence of Experience and beat the keeper, Rotshidzwa Muleka, hands down with a volley. Santos enjoyed their lead until the proceedings for the first half came to an end.
Fhedzisani Makhuvha of Santos was booked for a late tackle on Litshani Phasani three minutes into the last half.
Thima Managa of Santos handled the ball within his own penalty area, following a scramble. Referee Olani Kwinda awarded Experience a penalty. Rotshidzwa Muleka scored from the white spot, but the referee ordered a retake on the basis that Muleka had advanced before the referee blew the whistle. Muleka scored a legitimate one to make it 1-1 in the 60th minute.
A player of Experience, Lutendo Mudau, was hit by a stone on the head while they were celebrating the goal.
Santos were awarded a free kick in the 35 meter area moments thereafter. Nndateni Netshitadi headed home after the keeper mishandled.
Experience continued to fight and were rewarded with a goal six minutes before full time. Aluwani Nelufule's volley hit the crossbar and bounced across the goal line. The goal was followed by a heated argument between the players of Santos and the match officials. The players argued that the ball had not crossed the goal line, but the referee stood by his decision.