Milford FC moved to the top of the PSL Promotion/Relegation Play-Off standings after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Magesi FC at uMhlathuze Sports Complex on Wednesday afternoon.
Both sides entered the encounter with confidence after defeating Cape Town City FC in their respective opening fixtures, setting up a crucial clash in the race for promotion to the Betway Premiership.
The hosts started brightly and looked comfortable in possession during the early stages. Milford showed attacking intent from the outset and managed to test Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze on several occasions.
Magesi grew into the match as the first half progressed and came close to opening the scoring shortly before the break. Nyakala Raphadu found himself through on goal following a defensive lapse, but Siphamandla Hleza produced an important save to keep the scores level.
The second half was a tightly contested affair, with both sides struggling to create meaningful opportunities in the final third. While there was no shortage of effort, clear-cut chances were at a premium as the match appeared destined to end in a draw.
Magesi head coach Allan Freese turned to his bench late in the game, introducing Siyabonga Ndlozi, Sphelele Majola and Bafedile Baloyi in search of a breakthrough.
However, Milford had the final say. Deep into stoppage time, Khanyisani Radebe reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area and volleyed beyond Chipezeze in the 95th minute to send the home supporters into celebration.
The victory marks Milford’s second consecutive win in the play-offs and sees the KwaZulu-Natal side move to the summit of the standings as they continue their push for a place in next season’s Betway Premiership.
image: Sthe Badlalele