Baroka were giant-killers on their way to the semifinals with victories over PSL teams Moroka Swallows and Kaizer Chiefs. Baroka play in the Vodacom League, the third tier of South African football.
But yesterday they were not so lucky against their Limpopo rivals.
Leopards, once in the PSL but now playing in the second tier, will face Orlando Pirates on May 28 at the Mbombela stadium. The Buccaneers beat Black Aces in Saturday night's first semifinal.
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| Baroka FC - Katlego Mashego |
The poor penalty-taking during the shoot-out, caused because the match was deadlocked at 2-2 after extra time, exposed the lack of preparation of both teams.
Baroka scored from just one of their four penalties and Leopards converted three of their four.
Thobani Mncwango got the opener for Baroka and from there it looked like it would be an easy passage to the final for Sello Chokoe's team. But Vincent Xakane's free kick levelled the tie as the teams looked tired going into the second half.
The pace slowed and referee Jerome Damon had to continue the match into extra time in the hope of a winner. Leopards picked themselves up during this time and took the lead for the first time in the match through a strike from Rodney Magalela in the 109th minute that made the score 2-1.
But Leopards couldn't hold their nerve at the back as Baroka persisted and never showed any sign of giving up their cup final dream. Kunani Nkoana levelled for Baroka a minute later.
Source - timeslive.co.za
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