Maritzburg United booked their place in the Nedbank Cup semi-final after claiming a 2-1 victory over Bloemfontein Celtic at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Saturday, writes DYLAN APPOLIS.
The Team of Choice got off to the best possible start when they took the lead in the first minute after Lebohang Maboe slotted home with a fine finish to put the home side ahead.
Maritzburg should’ve taken the lead after 20 minutes when Bandile Shandu rattled the woodwork with his thunderous effort.
Alfred Ndengane had a chance to put his side ahead on the half-hour mark, but he directed his effort inches wide of the target.
Celtic came close to levelling matters in the 42nd minute when Ronald Pfumbidzai unleashed a venomous strike from distance, but his effort sailed wide of the post.
The home side went into the half-time interval with a one-goal lead over Celtic.
Celtic came out with more intent in the second half and started seeing more possession of the ball as the match went on.
Celtic levelled matters in the 76th minute after Jacky Motshegwa showed his composure to find the back of the net, 1-1.
Maritzburg regained the lead four minutes later when Maboe picked out Andrea Fileccia before the striker buried his effort to make it 2-1.
The visitors pressed forward in search of an equalising goal in the closing stages of the game, but Maritzburg held on to their lead to advance to the semi-final of the Nedbank Cup at the Harry Gwala Stadium.
