Black Leopards controlled their latest game from the onset to the bitter end, but eventually they shared the spoils with Roses United. The National First Division League match at the Makhuvha Stadium last Saturday ended in a 1-1 draw.

Lidoda Duvha’s new signee, Rendani Ndou, was in the team’s starting line-up. He formed a deadly combination with David Zulu at the forefront, but it was difficult for them to find the net. Leopards missed a fortune in the eighth minute. Their central midfielder, Meshack Maphangule, hesitated for far too long to unleash after receiving a beautiful pass from Mumuni Abubakar. He eventually lost possession of the ball.

A breakdown in communication between the Leopards’ keeper, Dino Visser, and his defenders gave birth to Roses’ goal in the 24th minute. Visser misjudged the flight of the ball and ultimately suffered the pain of watching the ball going beyond his reach.

The home side continued to control proceedings but it remained difficult for them to find their way through Roses’ defence until the teams adjourned for half time.

Harry Nyirenda, the Leopards’ Malawian international, was reprimanded with a card for handling the ball intentionally early in the second half. Realizing that Meshack Maphangule’s original fighting spirit was fading with time, they replaced him with Bafana Sibeko in the 57th minute.

Black Leopards used their remaining two substitution chances by introducing Ivan Mahangwahaya and Karabo Tsepe for Jabulanai Ndebele and Leonard Ntshangase respectively. Leopards’ equalizer came in the referee’s optional time. Mahangwahaya was brought down within the box and the referee, Mr Thando Ndzandeka, award a penalty to the home side. David Zulu converted from the white spot.