Magesi pulled off an upset once again in the Carling Knockout by defeating TS Galaxy 1-0 at the Mbombela Stadium in their quarterfinal encounter on Sunday afternoon.
TS Galaxy were the better team in the first half and did well by creating opportunities to score through set pieces.
A dangerous tackle from Marks Munyai saw the defender pick up a yellow card early and the team had to tread lightly going forward.
The conditions were extremely hot in Mbombela, 37°C to be exact, and a water break was given after 20 minutes for the players to cool off and continue playing.
By the 30-minute mark, Magesi gained a bit more confidence on the ball and began to effectively challenge the Rockets. The home team was a bit too slow to get on the ball in the final third, despite good through passes making their way forward.
The Rockets would come to rue their missed chances in the 43rd minute, as Lehlogonolo Mokone opened the scoring for the visitors.
Goalkeeper Tapé Ira and his defenders seemingly had their lines crossed, causing confusion as Dikwena tsa Meetse capitalised.
The second stanza saw TS Galaxy looking a bit subdued but they picked their performance back up in the later stages of the half. Deolin Mekoa came close to doubling the lead for Magesi but his powerful effort flew just above the crossbar.
Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipeze made a spectacular match-winning save as stoppage time approached to keep his team on course to play in the semifinal of the Carling Knockout.
TS Galaxy (0) 0
Magesi (1) 0 (Mokone 43’)
TS GALAXY: T. Ira, M. Munyai (N. Radebe 46’), M. Mahlangu, K. Ndamane, S. Kabini, T. Khiba, N. Mgaga, V. Letsoalo (M. Mbunjana 75’), L. Mbatha (T. Sibanyoni), D. Zajimovic (P. Dithejane 60’), S. Mahlangu (Q. Sibande 46’)
MAGESI: E. Chipeze, E. Chirambadare (K. Rademeyer 84’), J. Mokone, D. Abrahams, L. Mokone, L. Mzava, S. Darpoh, D. Mekoa, T. Kakora, W. Makhubu, T. Mashigo
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