KWAZAKHELE-BASED side, AmaUnits, came from behind to beat the hot favourites, Young Pirates, 5-4 on penalties after the 2-2 full-time score in their SAFA Nelson Mandela Bay Masters’ Association Top 8 clash at the Motherwell NU 13 Community Grounds on Sunday afternoon.
The Uitenhage side broke the ice after their midfielder, Malibongwe Dickson, pulled the trigger to beat AmaUnits goalkeeper Tsepo Mangwana in the first half.
Vuyani Jomo Mtati and Luzuko Dzuyi Hambaze combined well in the front line of AmaUnits, though Young Pirates managed to maintain their 1-0 lead until half-time.
AmaUnits kept on searching for their opening goal in the second half. However, the Kwazakhele side’s hard work paid dividends when they were awarded the penalty that was scored by Eddie Fani to level the matters to 1-1.
Young Pirates’ super substitute, Mncedisi Hote, together with Dickson, made things happen for their side in the front line.
Dickson scored his second goal that increased Pirates’ lead to 2-1.
AmaUnits piled more pressure on Pirates with Hambaze’s efforts being saved by the upright. Finally, Hambaze’s equalising goal forced the game into the penalty shoot-out. AmaUnits eliminated Pirates 5-4 on penalties.
In another tough battle, PE All Stars overcame Veeplaas 3-2. All Stars’ goals came courtesy of Xolile Fibi and a brace by Andile Dunjwa.
Mkhululi Shakes Matroos banged in a single for Veeplaas, while All Stars defender Kwanele Dzadza registered his own goal for Veeplaas.
Winners Masters advanced to the semi-finals as well following their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Joe Slovo Masters. Sparks Masters also booked themselves a berth in the semi-finals after they were awarded soft-points over Villagers who failed to pitch up for their game.