THE 2-1 score line does Thanda Royal Zulu no justice after they demolished the much-vaunted Jomo Cosmos title chasers in a brilliant display at the uMhlathuze Stadium on Saturday.
Whereas the Amabhubesi pounded the visitors’ goal at regular intervals, Cosmos had only one shot of note in the first stanza.
In fact, they never knew what hit them as Thanda raced into the lead within two minutes of the kick-off, Velile Zitha nailing a power header from a corner.
A succession of shots followed in the next few minutes, with an unlucky Mazwi Mncube just heading over, Phumelele Bhengu seeing his rocket drive barely held by the keeper, Mncube again putting a left-footed strike narrowly wide and Nkanyiso Madonsela losing out in a one-on-one with the Cosmos stopper.
Reckless
Almost on the stroke of half-time, Boy Gumede had the misfortune of seeing his potent header smack against the crossbar.
Thanda came out in the second half with a changed strip to eliminate some confusion.
Cosmos apparently came out determined to stop Thanda at all costs, with reckless tackles flying in from all angles and the referee only showing yellow cards.
The new tactic failed as Thanda kept up their dominance and it was no surprise when Gumede latched onto a cross to nod the ball into the back of the net.
The home boys cruised through the half, setting up plenty of chances, the best of which was spurned by Nkanyiso Madonsela, who elected to shoot with a man open and unmarked close to the goalmouth.
While they never looked like conceding, Thanda did give away a penalty from a handball near the end, which Peter ‘Bullet’ Nwadike put away with ease.
So it’s three more points for Thanda and a major setback for Jomo’s promotion hopes.
Now unbeaten in their last 10 matches, Thanda need to hold on to their fine squad and challenge for PSL promotion next season.
This they can do if local businesses come to their help.
