Gallants stun Stellies to secure CKO semifinal spot

Marumo Gallants claimed a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC in the Carling Knockout quarterfinal match at the Dr Molemela Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

As a result, Bahlabane Ba Ntwa advanced to the semifinals of the local league cup as they joined Mamelodi Sundowns, Richards Bay and Magesi FC in the last four.

Stellies, on the other hand, saw their defence of the Carling Knockout come to an end and they will be in action on Wednesday as they play host to TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership.

Having succumbed to a 1-0 defeat to Stellenbosch in a midweek Betway Premiership match, Gallants got off to a promising start launching most of their attacks down the wings.

The deadlock was broken in the 17th minute when Daniel Msendami's pinpoint cross from the right was headed home by Siyabulela Shai and Gallants were leading 1-0 at halftime.

The reigning Carling Knockout champions pushed for the equalising goal after the restart with coach Steve Barker introducing Genino Palace and Ibraheem Jabaar in the 64th minute.

Goalkeeper Washington Arubi made late saves to ensure that Gallants emerged as 1-0 winners - denying Devin Titus in the 80th minute before also saving an attempt from Ismail Toure in stoppage time.

Gallants (1) 1 (Shai 17')

Stellenbosch (0) 0

GALLANTS: Arubi, Sikhosana, Mabotja (Mokobodi 90'+1), Mathiane, Sithole (Nhlapo 90'+1), Msendami (Chabaitsane 76'), Dhludhlu, Nange, Shai (Mhango 68'), Mphambaniso (Mlambo 68'), Khumalo.

STELLENBOSCH: Stephens, Toure, Basadien, Moloisane, Nduli (Jabaar 64'), Jurgens (Phili 46'), Butsaka (Mdaka 76'), Barns, De Jong (Palace 64') Titus, Cupido (Lekoloane 76')