AFTER beating Bethlehem-based side Super Eagles FC in the first round of the Nedbank Cup at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in East London 2-1, Ezibeleni-based side, Amavarara FC, are through to the next round of the tournament.
Goals from Sihle Maso and Khakha Velaphi in the first half helped the Chris Hani-based side to progress to the second round of the competition, while 21-year-old Molteno born winger Athenkosi Lafota got 100% of the vote from the media box as the man of the match.
“We were good in the first half as we scored our two goals, but I think the boys were a bit relaxed in the second half that is why they (Super Eagles) got the goal,” said Amavarara technical director Archibald Dyeli.
“But I do not want to say we are over the moon because we are not yet there, but we are happy that we are through to the second round,” Dyeli said.
Amavarara will now face South African Premier Soccer League giants Black Leopards on the weekend of 22-25 February in Thohoyandou, Limpopo in the last 16 of this year’s Nedbank Cup in a draw that was made in Johannesburg on Monday night.
“We are happy with the draw even though we will be travelling to the slaughterhouse (as Black Leopards’ stadium is known in football circles). It will be the opportunity for the players to showcase their talent as we will be playing against the Premier League side,” said Amavarara chairperson, Lusapho Mzwakali.
Black Leopards secured their passage to the Nedbank Cup last 16 with a 4-0 victory over North West University on Sunday afternoon.
Another Eastern Cape side, Chippa Uni-ted, will be on the road as well, visiting Bidvest Wits in Johannesburg in the same tournament.
