Leopards plan to kill Lupopo off early

BLACK Leopards plan to score an early goal to end Saint Eloi Lupopo from DR Congo's chances of making a comeback in the CAF Confederation Cup in Lubumbashi on April 6.

Lidoda Duvha beat the Congolese giants 4-2 in the first leg of their first round match at Giyani Stadium in Limpopo on Saturday.

"We have already started planning for the return match, we need an early goal in the first 10 minutes and to get the second one before half time," said Leopards chairman David Thidiela. "That is the only way to finally end Lupopo's hopes of advancing into the next round, we are not going to Lubumbashi to defend.

"I told you last week we planned a feast of goals, it happened. The same will happen in the return match but we will be more disciplined at the back.

"Many people are not giving us a chance in this tournament, but we will surprise them. It will also be the same in the Absa Premiership and Nedbank Cup.

"We are now back on our feet after starting the season badly, there is no turning back," said Thidiela, who urged South Africans to rally behind his team.

Thidiela's sentiments were echoed by Safa technical committee convenor Fanyana Sibanyoni.

"The problem with us in South Africa is that we do not support our clubs in international competitions. That must change," said Sibanyoni.

Humphrey Khoza netted a brace for Leopards. The other goals came from Joshua Obaje and Thomas Madimba, while Alexandru Oprica and Munganga Djunga netted for the visitors.