Simunye collect vital points at home

GEORGE NEWS - The Lawaaikamp soldiers Simunye FC collected much-needed points at home when they sank the Knysna team FC United 3-0 in a Safa Eden Regional Men's League game on Saturday 5 February at the Lawaaikamp Stadium.

Yamkela Ntlaba opened the score and Siyabonga "Mpumlo" Miggels scored a brace for Simunye. Miggels, having returned from playing for Black Cats in the ABC Motsepe League, played very well last weekend. FC United put in their best efforts, but it was not their day.

After 15 games played, Simunye is sitting second on the log with 36 points. The had eleven victories, drew three and lost one. FC United are at the top with 38 points after winning 12 games, drawing two and losing one.

Both sides played excellent attacking football, but the home team maintained the upper hand. FC United made the first attempt at a goal from a set piece, but Lwando "Ramos" Mahlathini's attempt was unsuccessful.

Khanyisani "Mashesha" Radebe of Simunye launched an attack from the left side of the field, which missed the goal, but before long Yamkela Ntlaba of Simunye gave them their first goal, managing a marvellous turn and powerful strike to make it 1-0.

Simunye kept on attacking looking for the loopholes and were awarded with a free kick but Vuyisa Dyonas wasted their chance, his shot going straight at the FC United wall. Miggels delivered a powerful shot which was well saved by FC United goalkeeper Aviwe Tshandu.

FC United were looking very sharp on the ball with Msimelelo Keyizana hunting for their first goal, but his effort was cleared away by Simunye defender Philani Kunene. FC United made early substitutions taking out Lwando Mahlathini and Lukhanyo Ngolombane and bringing in the fresh legs of Dumisani Molosi and Asongezwa Fihlani.

Not deterred, Simunye scored their second goal after an attack from the centre of the field. FC United had another chance with a corner kick but failed to score. When ref Sibusiso Mvubu blew the half-time whistle, Simunye was leading 2-0.

In the second half the visitors had a hard time play against the wind, while Simunye relied heavily on their flanks. Radebe drove in a long-range shot which was saved by FC United's goalkeeper.

The home side kept on pushing and penetrated FC United's defence leading to their third goal, scored by Miggels. Miggels created another chance for Simunye when he played a beautiful cross into the box, and Yamkela Ntlaba sent a good header, but the goalkeeper denied his second goal.