Highlands Park progressed to the quarter-finals of the Telkom Knockout after beating Chippa United 2-0 at the Makhulong Stadium on Friday night. Highlands led 1-0 at halftime.
The victory was a magnificent start for former Bafana Bafana coach Gordon Igesund, who took charge of Highlands earlier this week. The 60-year-old, who has won the league title with Manning Rangers, Orlando Pirates, Santos and Mamelodi Sundowns, was brought in to replace Allan Freese as coach. Igesund certainly made an impression in his first game in charge as Highlands looked a lot more organised and structured.
No doubt motivated by the appointment of the new coach, and determined to make a good impression, Highlands got off to a quick start. By the 12th minute, they had taken a 1-0 lead when Collins Mbesuma scored. The prolific Zambian striker was last season’s leading scorer and he’s continuing his great form at Highlands.
Chippa had an inviting opportunity to equalise seven minutes later, but Highlands goalkeeper Tapuwa Kapini brilliantly saved a close-in header from Menzi Masuku.
With Chippa struggling to get back into it, their problems were compounded five minutes before half-time when coach Dan Malesela was forced into a change, with the injured Andile Mbenyane replaced by Zaphaniah Mbokoma.
Moments later, just before the referee’s whistle to bring the first period to an end, Highlands could have increased their advantage, but Charlton Mashumba’s long-range free-kick effort skimmed the cross bar.
Chippa then turned up the heat in the second half in their quest to get back on terms. They dominated possession and territory, though they just couldn’t find a way past an inspired Kapini.
The Port Elizabeth side did have the ball in the net early in the second half through Masuku, but it was disallowed because of a handball. Paseka Mako should then really have scored for Chippa in the 63rd minute, but his attempt was saved by Kapini.
But, with Highlands defending stoutly, and Chippa forced to throw men forward, it was no surprise when Igesund’s men went 2-0 up after a counter-attack in the 76th minute, which led to a great goal from substitute Edwin Sitayitayi.
Chippa kept pushing and pressing in the closing stages, but they lacked inspiration in attack and just never had the cutting edge to break down the resolute Highlands defence. – African News Agency (ANA)
