A brace by James Keene and further strikes by Evans Rusike and Aubrey Modiba saw SuperSport United claim a 4-0 victory against Black Leopards in their Absa Premiership tie, writes MARSHALL GOUTS.

Newly promoted Leopards went into the clash having registered only one victory from their last five league outings, while Kaitano Tembo’s side claimed two victories from their five league matches.

The two sides had hardly settled when striker Keene opened his account for SuperSport with a well-taken header in the first minute following a great cross by Siyabonga Nhlapo.

Fagrie Lakay came close to scoring minutes later when he latched on to Teboho Mokoena’s through ball but his effort went inches wide of the target.

SuperSport continued to threaten Leopards particularly on the right flank where Lakay was operating. The home side should have doubled their lead when Lakay’s cross found an unmarked Rusike in the area, but the Zimbabwean directed his effort straight into the hands of the goalkeeper.

SuperSport’s attacking trio of Keene, Rusike and Lakay were carving through the Leopards defence with ease, but proved wasteful on a few occasions.

The home side doubled their advantage in the 33rd minute when a swift attacking move saw Rusike play in Modiba for the easiest of tap-ins.

Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made a superb save to deny a goalbound effort after defender Bongani Kumalo failed to clear his lines.

Lidoda Duvha came out with more of an attacking intent in the second half but struggled to break down a well-organised SuperSport defence.

Rusike added his name to the scoresheet in the 71st minute when he evaded the attention of defenders before calmly slotting home.

Keene grabbed his brace moments before the final whistle as SuperSport ran out comfortable 4-0 victors.

Photo: Gallo Images