Thanda Royal Zulu, who have already won promotion to the lucrative PSL, whipped FC Cape Town 4-1, Black Leopards qualified for the play-offs by overpowering University of Pretoria 1-0, while AmaZulu grabbed the all-important third spot after hammering Jomo Cosmos 5-1.
In addition, Magesi FC moved out moved out of the drop zone on goal difference following a 6-0 demolition of Real Kings and Milano United shocked high-flying Stellenbosch 1-0 in Parow.
Lebogang Mabotja was Lidoda Duvha’s hero at the Tuks Stadium, where Shaun Bartlett’s outfit almost netted in the first half but Kyle Koert’s shot was well saved.
Ezenkosi took an early lead however, Usuthu fought back gallantly with goals from Augustine Ramphela (2), the veteran, Siyabonga Nomvethe (2) and Lungelo Dlamini which has given the KZN team a very good chance of also reaching the play-offs.
Magesi FC gave themselves a lifeline, thanks to Thembisani Nevhulamba (2) Noko Mapoulo, Dithloriso Mphyane plus another brace from Silas Maziya.
This result means Shepherd Murape’s team are out of the drop zone on goal difference.
Relegation-threatened Eezy my Kinnes opened the scoring in the 3rd minute via Bongile Booi before continuing to dominate this fast-flowing derby. Just before half time, Namibian striker, Terdius Uiseb, should have made it 2-0 but his effort went straight to the oncoming goal-stopper, Washington Arubi.
Stellenbosch played most of the second 45 minutes with only ten men after Brent Adonis was shown a second yellow for a reckless challenge.
Already-relegated Santos shocked Witbank Spurs 1-0 at Athlone, while Mthatha Bucks recorded a similar win over Cape Town All Stars.
Earlier, Igugu Lekapa’s ‘keeper, Dumisani Msibi, had kept the score at 0-0 following a Sibusiso Hlubi header.
The match between Royal Eagles and Mbombela United ended goalless.
The third play-off spot and the second relegation position will be decided this coming Sunday (14 May).
If AmaZulu beat the African Beasts on the final day, then Dr Patrick Sokhela’s club will participate in the play-offs and Errol Dicks’ side are relegated.
