Wits sink United to close in on Downs

Papy Faty scored on either side of the break as Bidvest Wits secured a win over SuperSport United in an Absa Premiership clash.

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Johannesbueg - Papy Faty scored on either side of the break as Bidvest Wits secured a 2-0 win over SuperSport United in an Absa Premiership clash at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville on Tuesday evening.

Three points for Gavin Hunt’s men closes the gap between the Braamfontein-based side and Mamelodi Sundowns to three points. The league leaders face Ajax Cape Town on Wednesday.

The teams’ four previous meetings heading into the clash conjured only three goals in four games. Early signs, though, suggested a goal fest was on the cards with a SuperSport team, that is quick on the transition, going head-to-head against a Bidvest Wits side desperate for all three points.

Following a fast-paced start, the game suffered a dip in intensity before Mario Booysen went close on the half-hour mark.

Having shrugged off his marker, the lanky defender should have done better with his header attempt from close range. Thuso Phala’s cross was pinpoint, but his teammate could only manage to direct his effort well wide.

Booysen was made to rue his miss in the 36th minute as The Clever Boys opening the scoring on the night through Burundi international Faty.

Moments after Sibusiso Vilakazi went close for the visitors, former Matsatsantsa favourite Daine Klate teed up Faty who hammered home past Ronwen Williams, who could only watch the ball fly into the back of the net.

Faty, in his first game back since November, was the difference at the break.

Two minutes into the second stanza Elias Pelembe sent Henrico Botes straight through on goal. With Daine Klate in space, Botes tried to pick out his teammate, but the Namibian’s pass lacked power allowing Williams time to rush out and claim the ball at the winger’s feet.

Bradley Grober went within inches of grabbing the equaliser in the 62nd minute. Having weaved his way into the area, the SuperSport forward forced Moeneeb Josephs into a superb save.

Wits, though, were not going to be denied and sealed the win through Faty in the 82nd minute.

Second-half substitute Jabulani Shongwe made an immediate impact off the bench as he raced to the goal-line before setting up Faty for an easy finish.

African News Agency