Promotion playoffs race slightly open after TTM’s victory over Royal Eagles

Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) defeated Royal Eagles 2-1 in a Premier Soccer League promotion/relegation playoffs match in Thohoyandou on Saturday.

Two quick goals in the third and fourth minutes from Wonderboy Makhubu and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo respectively were enough to give TTM a slight chance in the promotion race with one game left to play.

Though tied on three points with Eagles they remain bottom of the log but three points from leaders Maritzburg United.

The visitor’s consolation came in the 48^th minute through Levi Mashiane. Due to their better goal difference Eagles remain in second spot on the table. TTM Coach Momcilo “Moma” Medic applauds his side’s fighting spirit.

Medic made eight changes to the side that lost 2-0 to Maritzburg last Wednesday that included goalkeeper Tshepo Ramaele the two goal scorers and Onyedikachi Ononogbu. Much as the coach is happy his gamble paid off, Medic also admits his charges’ lack of game time showed in the second stanza.

Eagles Coach Sazi Ngubane says the game was lost in the first half adding that he warned his players about conceding early.

Ngubane further accuses the opposition of parking bus.

Like fellow National First Division side TTM, Eagles have a mathematical chance of winning the playoffs with one last match at home against Maritzburg. Ngubane says Eagles are not going to count themselves out of the race yet. – Report by Lethabo Kganyago