The Dolphins FC have booked a place in the knock-out stage of the Mulindavhathu Soccer Challenge, by beating Khubvi Dangerous Darkies 3-1 at the Khubvi Benjies grounds on Sunday.

Darkies controlled the game from the onset, but silly mistakes by their defenders cost them the game. Darkies’ dribbling wizard, Avhatakali Tshivhase, squandered an obvious chance in the 14th minute. He received a neat pass from Simon Nkhumeleni and beat the Dolphins sweeper, Matodzi Nemudzivhadi, with pace, only to shoot wide from close range.

Realising that it was difficult for them to penetrate through the defence of Darkies, Dolphins relied on counter-attacks. It worked for them as they managed to score a goal before the end of the first half. Their Rastafarian striker, Aluwani Manenzhe, scored with a header after a corner kick by Tshililo Phosa.

Darkies continued to enjoy ball possession, with Dolphins taking their time to study their opponents’ moves.  In the 64th minute, Dolphins did it again. This time Rendani Phalanndwa finished off a square pass from Fhatuwani Mavhungu.

The Dolphins were reduced to 10 men in the 67th minute. Tshisikhawe Thomani kicked an opponent below the belt and he received his marching orders.

Dolphins managed to score a third goal, despite all the odds. Daniel Radzivhoni found the net, following a scramble within the box.

Darkies scored their solitary goal via Avhatakali Tshivhase. He scored with a bicycle kick.

Darkies lost their midfielder, Tinyiko Manganye, through a red card in the 78th minute. He kicked an opponent intentionally.