Rebels and Abarondoli through to finals of Philly’s games

2014 champions, Rebels FC took on Alexander side Gomora United in the second leg of the 32nd edition of the Philly’s games, on New Year’s Day at the Esqongweni sports grounds.

The side from Riverlea, came into the match with a goal advantage after they won the 1st leg by 1-0.

Rebels were quickly out of the block like they did in the 1st leg, and the ball was in the back of the net through Thato Matebejane in the 15th minute. Gomora United continued to press as they searched for an equaliser and were eventually rewarded when Moses Mukasi scored to make it 1-1 in the 35th minute. Both sides went into the break with the scores at 1-1.

It was end-to-end stuff at the resumption of play under the scorching sun in Tembisa. Both teams produced some sublime football that was entertaining and frantic at times but neither side could increase their tally.

A minute before the final whistle, a player from each side was sent off, reducing both teams to 10 men. The game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes which ultimately meant that Rebels progressed to Tuesday's final on a 2-1 aggregate. The prize money for winning the finals is expected to be about R 220 000.

ABARONDOLI SNEAK INTO FINALS AFTER PENALTY SHOOTOUT

Last year's champions One Lion FC took on a Jerry Skhosana-coached Abarondoli in the second semifinal of the day.

The two sides had played to a 2-2 draw in a Tembisa derby on Sunday, with a spot in the final at stake and a chance to win the prize money.

One Lion scored early in the 1st half and went into the halftime break leading by 1-0 with 45 more minutes to play.

There was, however, some late drama as Abarondoli equalised with 10 minutes to go. At the end of 90 minutes, it was 1-1 and 3-3 on aggregate which meant that the game went into penalties to determine who could face Rebels FC in the finals.

Abarondoli went on to win the penalty shootout 4-1.

Abarondoli will go on to face Rebels FC in the finals which has been scheduled for 3 pm on Tuesday 2 January at the Mehlareng Stadium in Tembisa.

You can catch the final live on SuperSport channels 202/209