Phandulaluvalo FC enhanced their chances of winning the league title when they beat Mukula Young Santos 2-0 in their MMK Administrators match at the Tshidzani Tsha Maria grounds on Saturday.
Santos were by far the better side when it came to ball possession and dribbling skills. Realizing that it would be difficult for them to match the home side pound for pound in all departments, Phandulaluvalo played aerials balls from behind.
Although Santos lost shape in the middle of the park many a time, their left-footed midfielder, Humphrey Takalani, remained a live wire. He was everywhere, dishing some telling passes to the goal poachers, who seemed to have forgotten their scoring boots at home.
Santos, however, threatened to score in the 14th minute. Joshua Netshilindi received a neat pass from Humphrey Takalani just outside the box but shot straight to the stranded keeper of Phandulaluvalo, Maanda Magaba, who easily handled the ball.
Phandulaluvalo's opening goal came in the 34th minute. Their captain, Engedzedsani Mudau, blasted in a rocket from inside the box.
The home side did not lose hope after conceding the goal. Instead, they continued to play entertaining football in their search for the equalizer. The visitors from Tshifudi increased the margin in the 36th minute. Edward Mabasa was on target with a half volley. He beat the keeper to bring the half-time score to 2-0.
Santos fought the second half with their hands tied behind their backs. Their defender, Shandukani Mahandana, was given his marching orders in the 47th minute. He kicked Edward Mabasa intentionally. Vhahangwele Tshifhango of Santos was booked for protesting against the referee's decision late in the game.