Ezenkosi stun new look Wits

SONO’S SON: MATSILELE THE BRIGHTEST SPARK

SuperSport United, Platinum Stars also advance to last eight.

Jomo Cosmos goalkeeper Lesego Modiba was the hero yesterday as Ezenkosi stunned Bidvest Wits in a penalty shootout to reach the last eight of the Nedbank Cup.

Modiba saved the 14th spot kick of the night from Sifiso Hlanti to give Cosmos a 5-4 win on penalties after the 120 minutes at Tsakane Stadium had finished at 1-1.

Gavin Hunt made nine changes to his Wits side from the 2-0 league win over Platinum Stars on Saturday, with only Buhle Mkhwanazi and Sifiso Hlanti staying in the starting line-up.

But this was still a Clever Boys starting line-up packed with experience, from Moeneeb Josephs in goal to Jabulani Shongwe and Sifiso Myeni in midfield and Cuthbert Malajila up front.

The closest Wits came to a goal in the opening period came in the 22nd minute when Mogakolodi Ngele crossed and Malajila headed just wide.

Cosmos’ brightest spark was undoubtedly Jomo Sono’s son, Matsilele Sono. In first half stoppage time he went on a brilliant run down the right flank before cutting in-field. The ball broke to Linda Mntambo, whose first shot was blocked, but the same player followed up to steer home at the second attempt.

Hunt threw on some heavy artillery at the break, bringing on young star Phakamani Mahlambi and veteran Daine Klate.

Wits were on the front foot immediately as Mahlambi fired into the side netting, but Cosmos also went close as Mxolisi Machupu just failed to reach a cross.

In the 58th minute, Mahlambi sent a ball fizzing across the Cosmos area, but no one from Wits was there to apply a finishing touch. Ngele was there eight minutes later to head home Klate’s corner and level the tie.

In last night’s other Nedbank Cup last 16 games, goals from Mandla Masango and Aubrey Modiba gave SuperSport United a 2-0 win at KwaDukuza United.

And Ndumiso Mabena’s stoppage time goal in extra time handed Platinum Stars a 1-0 win at Baroka FC. Nelspruit.