Eastern City draws with Benfica in George
The Thembalethubased side Eastern City FC played a 1-1 draw against Benfica (Mossel Bay) in a Hollywoodbets Regional League fixture on Saturday morning, 18 November at the Lawaaikamp Stadium. Lixa Bomvana of Benfica netted the first goal of the game, while Landile Magwa scored the equalising goal for Eastern City.
From the start, Benfica displayed excellent ball skills with Lixa Bomvana creating more space for his side. A corner kick for Benfica went over the goal. Eastern City attacked on the right side of the field and managed to receive a free kick, but again missed the target. Benfica followed suit, also launching an attack from the right side of the field, but Lithalethu Sizani failed to score from his clear-cut chance. A powerful strike just outside the box saw Benfica's
Lixa Bomvana scoring the first goal of the game. Benfica continued its onslaught with strong play by Simbongile Mthontiso and Lithalethu Sizani that had the home side, Eastern City, defending desperately. Eastern
City goalkeeper Anoxolo Mbaxa fended off an attempt by Lukhangelo Twala of Benfica. When the half time whistle blew, Eastern City was trailing 1-0. The second half saw the sides playing with renewed energy. Benfica were defending their lead, trying to avoid the offensive play from Eastern City wingers. Both teams were playing the ball skillfully on the ground and Eastern City kept on pushing to equalise. Success came when Landile Magwa scored after a set-play from the centre of the field, making it 1-1. Despite hard work on both sides, no more goals were scored and the match ended 1-1.