THANDA Royal Zulu FC are yet to earn a point after losing their second game at home by 1-0 against Santos on Saturday afternoon.
Santos’ Gregory Roelf’s goal in the 55th minute proved to be the winner after the home side failed to capitalise on the chances they created.
In the early stages of the match the Cape Town outfit received a gift when the referee awarded them a penalty but Nasief Morris’ strike was saved by Thanda’s goalkeeper Zama Dlamini.
As the half drew on, Amabhubesi began to find their rhythm and went close in the 31th minute when Mhlengi Cele latched onto a low cross by Mzuvele Skhosana, but he was brilliantly denied by Lee Langeveldt from pointblank range.
Thanda’s new recruit Cebelihle Cele made his debut and did fairly well as he tormented the stubborn Santos side which was led by the experienced Nasief Morris.
Second half substitute Gregory Roelf showed his effectiveness on the field when he reacted quickly scoring the winning goal after dribbling past the Thanda defence.
Amabhubesi tried to come back as they kept the pressure on Santos but with no luck. They were also dealt a blow when Mhlengeni Cele received a straight red card after he fouled Ricardo Skippers.
The match finished with Santos taking the three points for the win.
Thanda Royal Zulu X1: Zama Dlamini (goalkeeper), Mduduzi Dlamini, Velile Zitha, Christoph Komane, Diamond Thopola (captain), Brian Mashishi, Mzuvele Skhosana, Cebelihle Cele, Nduduzo Phakathi, Thobelani Maneli and Mhlengi Cele.
Santos X1: Lee Langeveldt (goalkeeper), Jurie Basie, Xolani Mabaso, Zaakir Williams, Edwin Sitayitayi, Piere Kok, Suhayl Allie, Tyren Arendse, Tshepo Mabua, Nasief Morris and Ricardo Skippers (captain).
