One of the favourites of the Mayoral Cup Soccer Tournament, United Artists, will not take part in the quarterfinal stage of the prestigious competition.
This follows their 0-1 defeat at the hands of Tshakhuma RO Na Ndilani at the Makhuvha Stadium on Sunday. The game was played in a see-saw manner, with both sides creating and wasting their scoring opportunities. Tshakhuma were forced to replace their number-one goalkeeper within the first 20 minutes of the game. Their acrobatic keeper, Khuthadzo Mukomafhedzi, collided head-on with Khathutshelo Mashavhathaka and sustained serious head injuries.
He was replaced with Thabelo Nefuri. Mashavhathakha was replaced with Emmanuel Murwamadala as a result of injuries he suffered in the collision.
Tshakhuma threatened to score in the 28th minute when Dakalo Nemakonde unleashed aimlessly from close range. The ball went a little wide, much to the fans' disappointment.
Andani Nemalili of Tshakhuma was reprimanded with a card for a late tackle on Rolivhuwa Mukwevho three minutes before the teams adjourned for half time.
Tshakhuma strengthened their right flank by introducing Thabiso Lekgau for Masala Muedi early in the last half. Lekgau formed a deadly combination with Lufuno Mugodi and Dakalo Nemakonde at the forefront.
The goal that separated the boys from the men came in the 78th minute. Lufuno "CJ" Mugodi beat the offside trap and showed the keeper the wrong way.