Phathutshedzo “Mandoza” Takalani was a marvel to watch when his side, Mukula Young Santos, beat Makwarela Development Stars 2-1 in their SAB League match at the Makwarela Stadium on Saturday.

Takalani scored a brace in the match to ensure that Santos remain in contention for the league title.

The visitors from Mukula did not panic, despite squandering numerous scoring chances in the opening minutes. In the first instance it was their roving midfielder, Rendani Vusani, who caused an upset. He suffered the pain of watching his long-range volley going off target by inches in the ninth minute. Phathutshedzo Nethengwe commited a similar blunder a little later.

The referee, Mr Kenneth Makondo, flashed his first yellow card in the 19th minute. Andani Munyai of Development Stars was booked for a late tackle on Jacob Ramudzuli.

No goal was seen during the first half, despite numerous attempts by the Santos goal poachers. The last half saw Santos invade the opponents’ territory time after time. Takalani opened their account in the 50th minute. He unleashed a powerful shot from inside the box after a heartbreaking scramble. Santos introduced Nkhuliseni Ndlovu for Sharlen Munyamela, whose performance was deteriorating with time, in the 65th minute.

Jacob Ramudzuli of Santos was brought down within the box and it was a clear penalty; Takalani made no mistake from the penalty spot.

Development Stars replaced their injured defender, Hulisani Murei, with Thumo Murovhi late in the game. Tshililo Mufamadi scored the Stars’ solitary goal in the 84th minute.