Mulodi Freedom Birds are through to the final of the Vhembe Promotional Knockout Competition, after winning their first three matches.

They beat Muthelo FC 4-2 in their preliminary-round match last Tuesday. Their quarterfinal match was against Joe’s Express, whom they beat 3-0 at the Tshifulanani Stadium on Saturday. They then beat Mukula Young Santos 2-1 in the semifinal stage of the competition at the Makwarela Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Saturday's match against Joe’s Express was characterised by wasted scoring opportunities. Joe’s Express suffered a heavy blow in the 18th minute, when their diminutive striker, Lutendo Matshavha, sustained a serious injury. He was replaced with Levy Munyai.

A scramble within the danger area of Express gave rise to the Birds’ opening goal. Tshifhiwa Netshisaulu finished off a rebound to give his side a 1-0 lead at half time. Freedom Birds strengthened their striking force by introducing Dakalo Sengani and Master Mahada for Mukona Makhado and Sydney Sengani respectively. The replacements were not in vain, as they scored their second goal via Sengani in the 67th minute.

Express looked hopeless after the Birds’ second goal. Their third goal came in the 84th minute. A substitute, Rotshidzwa Nyadzane, was on target, following a square pass from Vhutshilo Nemulodi.

Freedom Birds will meet Tshifhire Northern Brothers in the regional final tomorrow afternoon.