Tshakhuma RO Nandilani secured a place in the provincial promotional playoffs after beating Berea FC 7-6 in the final of the MMK Administrators Champ of Champs match at the Makhuvha Stadium on Sunday.
Nandilani were out of touch in the beginning of the match, but they gained momentum with time. Berea capitalized and scored their first goal in the 14th minute. Dakalo Musetsho gave the ball a final touch, following a scramble within the box. That was a wakeup call to the players of Nandilani.
The Tshakhuma side started to play their normal carpet football from behind, with their midfielders dishing out some telling passes to the strikers. Nandilani injected more life into their midfielders by introducing Rofhiwa Netshiungani for Maboho Nevari in the 36th minute.
Shandukani Mabirimisa of Nandilani was booked for a late tackle on Elias Ranyaoa towards the end of the first half.
Nandilani found the equalizer six minutes into the last half. Dakalo Nemakonde beat the keeper with a half volley. Nandilani effected another change to their starting lineup shortly after their equalizing goal. They replaced Rendani Mukomafhedzi with Khuliso Netshulu, who formed a deadly combination with Sandukani Mabirimisa in the middle of the park.
Nandilani took the lead soon afterwards. Rinaye Madzhuta scored with a header, following a corner kick that was taken by Khuliso Netshulu. Berea found the equalizer through a substitute, Edwin "Cafu" Ramphabana, nine minutes before the referee, Mr Jelly Chavani, blew the final whistle.
The winner was determined through penalty shootout as the full-time score was 2-2. Nandilani converted five while Berea scored four from the white spot. Nandilani received R60 000, gold medals and a floating trophy during a ceremony held at the stadium shortly after the game. Nandilani will represent Vhembe Region in the provincial playoffs that will be staged at the Giyani Stadium in two weeks' time.