/ 15 December 2003

Cosmos in fine comeback

Jomo Cosmos came back from behind to beat Zulu Royals 2-1 in a fast and entertaining PSL soccer match played at Makhulong stadium on Sunday.

Royals led 1-0 at half-time.

Royals scored as early as the fourth minute, when a Thabiso Malatsi strike rebounded off the post, allowing Bashin Mhlangu to tap in for the only goal of the first half.

Royals defender Ivan Zwane could have doubled his side’s lead in the eighth minute but Cosmos goalkeeper Avril Thali did well to parry for a corner. There was drama in the 22nd minute when Cosmos defender Sammy Magalesa found the net after receiving a pinpoint cross from Manuel Bucuane, but referee Jonas Nhlapo ruled it offside.

In the second half Cosmos striker Bucuane equalised in the 78th minute after receiving a neat square pass from Lucky Mhlathi.

Two minutes later Bucuane was fouled in the box by Zwane and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.

Cosmos midfielder Tebogo Mokoena stepped up and made no mistake for Ezenkosi.

Cosmos now move to position nine on the log with 13 points from 12 games while Royals have 10 points from 12 games and in position 11. — Sapa