KNOCKOUT competitions are always tough and Thanda Royal Zulu FC knew they would be up against a committed AmaZulu side when they clashed in the Nedbank Cup qualifier at Princess Magogo Stadium in Umlazi on Tuesday afternoon.
That proved the case, with the home side scoring a decisive 4-1 win in a result that did not reflect the many chances spurned by the Amabhubesi, who tended to be over-anxious and panicky with the goals in sight.
AmaZulu drew first blood with a goal by Bornwell Mwape in the first five minutes, immediately putting the visitors on the back foot.
The tally was doubled in the 25th minute when Goodman Dlamini hit the net for Usuthu.
A few minutes later, Thanda’s Nzoza Luthuli managed to beat goal keeper Sage Stephens’ outstretched hands and Thanda went into the change room with a one goal deficit and still very much in the game.
Forced to attack, they left themselves vulnerable at the back and two quick goals by AmaZulu’s Tapelo Nyongo and Nkanyiso Zungu, half-an-hour from the end, saw them put the matter beyond Thanda’s reach.
Great defensive play by Innocent Maela denied Mwape a second and AmaZulu’s fifth goal.
Mwape beat Thanda goal keeper Samkelo Mbambo, but was blocked by Maela.
Mwape then took a second shot at goal from the rebound but it hit the left hand post.
Lions versus Leopards
The loss may, however, be a blessing in disguise for Thanda, who can now focus all their attention on the National First Division as they strive to climb from mid-table to the play-off places for PSL promotion.
With only a 12 point gap to the top of the table, Thanda will believe they are still in with an excellent chance.
That quest begins this Saturday when they take on Black Leopards in an away game.
It’s going to be an intense encounter, especially as Thanda head coach Major David Bright returns to the place he recently left amid great bitterness.
