Tshiungani Young Chiefs proved their critics wrong by beating one of the MMK Administrators Stream H league title chasers, Anel Real Vikings, at a packed Zwigodini grounds in the Niani area on Sunday.
Young Chiefs had a good game plan and they approached the game aggressively, with their strikers giving the Vikings' defenders no time to breathe. It took Young Chiefs 18 minutes to open their account. Their fast forward, Khathutshelo Bebeda, was brought down within the box. That prompted the referee, Mr E Denga, to award them a penalty. Rolivhuwa Thomoli made no mistake from the white spot.
Young Chiefs started to demonstrate their rough skills after the goal.
The referee normalized the situation by flashing three yellow cards in quick succession. Ndaedzo Netshivhongweni was booked for a late tackle on Ronewa Muthala in the 24th minute, while Benedict Netshitavhadulu and Riphuluse Phaswana were booked for dangerous play in the 26th and 28th minute respectively. The score was still 1-0 at half time.
Young Chiefs increased the lead in the 47th minute when Lindelani Mudau tried his luck from the 25-meter area with a half volley. Chiefs replaced Benedict Netshitavhadulu, Khathusthelo Bebeda and Thabo Nengwenani with Mukondeleli Makahane, Vhonani Singo and Khuliso Malinda respectively.
Real Vikings pulled one back in the 67th minute. Eliot Muthala hooked in the loose ball after a scramble within the box. The goal seemed to be an insult to Young Chiefs. They scored the third five minutes afterwards. Khuliso Malinda beat the offside trap and blasted in a rocket from close range. Real Vikings reduced the margin through Takalani Tshitangoni later in the game.