Five Flames regulars gave a good account of themselves in the Absa South Africa Premiership midweek action in what could be a boost ahead of next week’s game in Nigeria.
Emerging striker Robin Ngalande, who has two goals in the last four Flames’ consecutive appearances, finally registered his first BidVest Wits University goal in the team’s 1-0 win over Golden Arrows.
Spinning like a dolphin, he leapt and squeezed himself behind defenders to place his header into the net on 33rd minute, leaving his Arrows’ compatriot Peter Wadabwa, on the losing end.
And last year’s South Africa Player-of-the-Year Award contender Robert Ng’ambi, denied Mamelodi Sundowns a win when he popped in on the blind side to head in the equaliser for his Platinum Stars in the 83rd minute, thereby cancelling out Pierre Wome’s goal for Sundowns.
Ng’ambi won the Man-of-the-match Award and told SuperSport television that “I am enjoying my game. I just want to ensure that my team succeeds and it feels good.” Only Atusaye Nyondo did not play for University of Pretoria.
Veteran striker Esau Kanyenda came in the 65th minute, but could not prevent his Polokwane City from losing 2-3 to Bloemfontein Celtic who relied on the defensive solidity of Flames’ right-back Limbikani Mzava.
In an earlier interview, Kanyenda, basking in the glory of being voted City’s player-of-the-year and top scorer for last season, confirmed that he was now back on his feet after recovering from a knee ligament injury he picked on July 21.
“I played for 45 minutes against Moroka Swallows last week and by next week, I expect to be fully fit. I am yet to brief the national coach about my recovery,” said Kanyenda.
