THOHOYANDOU – Black Leopards will not take part in the next stage of the BP Top 8 KO Competition. This follows their 2-3 defeat at the hands of Santos Football Club, in an exciting game that was played at the Thohoyandou Stadium on Sunday.

Leopards' fighting spirit was lowered, when the referee Enock Radebe cautioned their strikers, Magic Ratshivhadelo and Sbusiso Dlamini, with cards in the opening minutes. Realising that there was lack of cohesion in the middle of the park, Santos introduced David Notoane for Thokozani Xaba in the 35th minute.

Leopards conceded a silly goal in the 44th minute. Their defence allowed Tyron Arendse to overrun them and unleashed a volley that was too hot for the Leopards' keeper, Silver Tshabalala to handle.

The home side left Magic Ratshivhadelo and Mpho Dagada in the dressing room during half time. The two gave way to Rudzani Ramudzuli and Vusi Kharivhe.

Santos was reduced to ten men nine minutes into the last half. Kamal Sait was given his marching orders for a second offence. Lidoda duvha came back strongly and found the equaliser in the 60th minute.

Vusi Kharivhe received a pass from John Ndou after a throw in by Wanani Mulaudzi and blasted in a rocket that left the Santos keeper, André Arendse flatfooted. Leopards were awarded a penalty five minutes later, when Sbusiso Dlamini was tripped within the box and the referee pointed to the white spot. Helder Muinga converted it.

The home side did not have enough time to celebrate their leadership. Muinga headed the ball home in an attempt to clear it from the danger area. Leopards were also hit below the belt when Sbusiso Dlamini saw red for a continued argument with the referee. Thokozani Mnguni was later replaced with Japhta Mabosho.

The score was still 2-2 at the end of the regulated time. Santos scored their golden goal three minutes into extra time and thus bringing the game to an end.