Siphosethu Ndlabi of Milford FC is challenges by Magesi's Lehlogonolo Mokone during their PSL promotion/relegation play-off at Umhlathuze Sports Complex in Richards Bay on Wednesday. Milford won the match 1-0. Photo: BackpagePix
Image: Backpagepix
Milford FC took a significant step towards securing promotion to the Betway Premiership after edging Magesi FC 1-0 in their PSL promotion/relegation play-off clash on Wednesday.
The victory saw the KwaZulu-Natal outfit move to the top of the mini-league standings with a maximum six points from their opening two matches, putting themselves firmly in control of the race for a place in South Africa's top flight next season.
Coming into the encounter at Richards Bay Stadium, both sides were unbeaten after winning their opening fixtures against Cape Town City. With top spot on the line, a tense and closely contested affair was expected, and neither team disappointed.
Milford looked to make use of their home advantage, while Magesi sought to continue the momentum that had carried them to victory in their first play-off outing.
Chances were few and far between during a cagey first half as both teams remained disciplined defensively.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with neither side willing to commit too many numbers forward or risk handing the initiative to their opponents. As the clock ticked down, it appeared the two teams would have to settle for a share of the spoils.
However, Milford had other ideas. The hosts struck late in the contest to send their supporters into celebration and secure a priceless three points. The dramatic winner not only preserved Milford's perfect start to the play-offs but also handed them sole possession of first place in the standings.
The result leaves Magesi with work to do in their remaining fixtures, while Cape Town City's hopes of regaining their Premiership status has become increasingly difficult. The Cape-based side have two matches remaining and must win both to come back into contention.
The Citizens travel to Richards Bay on Saturday to face the Stallions in a must-win encounter for the former
For latter, the equation is now simple. They have placed themselves in pole position and moved one step closer to achieving a historic promotion to the elite division and becoming the fifth team in the league to hail from KZN. Securing two draws over the next 10 days should be enough to see them achieve that objective.
Jehran Naidoo is sports reporter for Independent Media and social media coordinator of the our YouTube channel The Clutch