Black Cats show their prowess in regionals

FOOTBALL NEWS - In an exciting Safa Third Division league game on Sunday 20 November the Lawaaikamp side Black Cats FC celebrated its fourth consecutive win when they beat Paris United 3-1 at the Lawaaikamp Stadium.

The goals were netted by Zanemfundo "Vosho" Mali (Paris United), Mivuyo "Shandu" Ngubo (Black Cats) and Xolani Mandla (Black Cats, brace). Throughout the game, Cats captain Xolani Mandla showed his worth, creating many opportunities for his side.

Paris United had the upper hand for the majority of the first half with attacking play by flanks Mandlenkosi Prusente and Ayabulela Joja, as well as Lihle Msitshane and Anele Pungwana, who controlled the game from the centre of the field.

Paris United opened the score with a beautiful strike from Zanemfundo "Vosho" Mali. Ayabulela Joja (Paris United), Mzwanele "Ngweni" and Xolani Mandla (both Black Cats) made attempts to score, but failed. Paris United was leading 1-0 into the break.

The second half saw more assertive play by Black Cats with the wings putting more pressure on the Paris United backline. Xolani Mandla of Black Cats netted the equalising goal after Melisizwe Mbomvana pulled off a clever pass from a set piece.

Mandla followed this up with an impressive second goal from a free kick. Having taken the game from Paris United, the Lawaaikamp side played with more confidence and Cats had their hands full fending off attacks from Black Cats wingers Mivuyo Ngubo and Mthembu Mandla.

There was momentary hope for Paris United when Lunathi Ndzipho tried to break through, but his effort was well defended. Mivuyo Ngubo scored Cats' third goal during the last five minutes of the game, ensuring that Black Cats collected maximum points.

Lihle Msitshane of Paris United on the ball chasing the game with team mate Anathi Mtshazi (right) and Melisizwe Mbomvana (back) of Black Cats close by.

Safa Third Division weekend results

Saturday 19 November

• Sea Birds 0-0 Benfica

• Peace Makers 1-3 Eastern City

• Moonlight 2-0 Red Eagles

• Infantry 1-2 Oriented Birds

• Benfica 2-1 Eastern City

• Sea Birds 1-0 Peace Makers

• Moonlight 2-2 Oriented Birds

• Infantry 0-2 Red Eagles

Sunday 20 November

• Black Cats 3-1 Paris United

• Smuts United 1-0 Raul Stars

• FC United 1-2 Simunye

• Knysna Celtics 1-4 Young Pirates

• Black Cats 6-0 Raul Stars

• Smuts United 3-3 Paris United

• FC United 2-0 Young Pirates

• Knysna Celtics 1-2 Simunye

The Black Cats side are, back from left: Ayabulela Jantjies, Keathon van Rooyen, Xolani Ngcukayithobi, Sesethu Nyunya and Xolani Mandla. Front: Mivuyo Ngubo, Mzwanele Jwaqa, Mthembu Mandla, Banele Keswa, Tsepo Mbenyane and Melisizwe Mbomvana.

The Paris United team before their game against Black Cats.Back from left: Sandile Klaasen, Ayabulela Joja, Mihle Nethe, Anathi Mtshazi, Zanemfundo Mali, Odwa Petersen and Anele Pungwana. Front: Lihle Msitshane, Masixole Marangule, Siyanda Kalo, Slindokuhle Gcuwa and Mandlenkosi Prusente. Photos: Zama Gagu