The cruelty of football was on full display when Ndiitwani Shooting Stars came from 2-0 down to score three late goals and snatch a 3-2 victory over Vhembe Tron in their SAFA Vhembe Regional League match at Tshakhuma Malaria Grounds on Saturday. The victory secured the Stream D title for Shooting Stars.
Head coach Benjamin Mhlaba said the team's achievement was the result of a collective effort by the players, technical staff and management.
When asked what he had told the players during the half-time break, Mhlaba said he reminded them of the importance of securing maximum points and what victory would mean for the future of the team.
Shooting Stars trailed 1-0 at half-time after Tron took the lead through Sentebele Makalela.
The home side doubled their advantage when captain Maboho Nevari beat the goalkeeper with a low long-range shot. Tron held the lead until the final 15 minutes of the match.
Although time was running out, Shooting Stars never lost their fighting spirit. They pulled a goal back through Neyani Mambane, who beat the goalkeeper with a half-volley from a free kick. Mambane scored again after combining well with Hulani Mphephu.
Roda Maladzhi netted the winner in the dying minutes of the match.
Itani Nemavhulani of Tron was named Man of the Match.