09
TACTICAL TALK
BY ZAAHID NANABHAY
The Peter Mokaba Stadium. It’s the last day of the 2018-19 season and Maritzburg United need a win against Baroka FC to guarantee their survival in the South African top flight. A loss for Baroka would mean they were now themselves in danger of facing relegation while some six hours away in Bethlehem, Free State Stars are fighting for their lives. Free State Stars, fellow relegation candidates, are up against the mighty Mamelodi Sundowns who in turn need a victory to win the title on the final day of the season. It’s a day of absolute chaos. Maritzburg take the lead in Polokwane in the 20th minute through Fortune Makaringe to secure their safety for the time being; Maritzburg’s fortune means Baroka are now in the relegation zone, just ahead of Ea La Koto on
TINKLER’S RECIPE
REVIVED MARIT goal difference. There’s some big moves atop the standings as well with Orlando Pirates shooting to the top for the time courtesy of Stars’ stubbornness in Bethlehem. It was in the 41st minute that all hell broke loose. Phakamani Mahlambi gives Mamelodi Sundowns the lead against Free State Stars and ultimately, the league title, while Stars now need to score two unanswered goals to keep their status alive – this proved to be too big a hurdle for them. Baroka also get an equalizer in Polokwane
SOCCERZELA.CO.ZA
ISSUE 6 JUNE 2020
