Marumo Gallants staged an impressive comeback to defeat Saint Eloi Lupopo 3-2 and secured top spot in their CAF Confederation Cup group on Sunday evening.
With one eye on the upcoming domestic action, Gallants gave a run-out to Abram Ngcobo, Boitumelo Pheko, Sizwe Mdlinzo, Pule Maraisane, Sibusiso Nkosi and Judas Moseamedi.
Nkosi very nearly got the host up and running with a powerful free-kick from 30-yards out, but the midfielder guided the effort against the crossbar.
However, the visitors hit the front against the run of play when former Cape Town City man Allan Kateregga turned one challenge to beat Ngcobo with a close-range finish.
Gallants didn't lose focus and came close to drawing level after Nkosi weaved through the area from a tight angle before hitting the foot of the outside post.
Although, Lupopo added a second goal before halftime when Malanga Mwaku stuck out a leg and aided a penetrative shot towards target past a sprawling Ngcobo.
Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Joseph Molangoane was introduced by Gallants before the second half as Mdlinzo took the place of the utility player.
The host showed a lot of purpose after the break and reduced the deficit midway through the second half when Sibusiso Sibeko pounced on a floated ball and slotted in from five yards out.
Substitute Ranga Chivaviro completed the comeback for the home team when he drifted in-field from a tight angle and curled in the top corner.
Gallants continued to take control and went ahead in the last 15 minutes after Moseamedi picked up a loose ball from a scramble in the box and lashed into the bottom-corner.
Both teams got chances as the minutes ticked away, but the host stood firm and emerged victorious to confirm top spot of Group A.
Confirmed line-ups:
Marumo Gallants: Ngcobo, Nkili, Kgoetyane, Kumalo, Makudubela, Mdlinzo, Pheko, Nkosi, Manaka, Maraisane, Moaseamedi
Subs: Watenga, Gumede, Malongoane, Otladisa, Yidah, Chivaviro, Ramphela, Sibeko
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