Ten-man Cape Town Spurs secured a crucial 1-0 win over Casric in their third PSL Promotion/Relegation Playoff at Athlone Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.
After a rather scrappy affair in the first half that was notably due to the adverse weather conditions, Spurs always looked the side favourites to win.
With over 60% of the possession and almost 20 attempts at goal, Shaun Bartlett’s side were making home advantage count ahead of their final game against Maritzburg United.
But it was only until the hour mark where things really sprung to life, ironically after having their star forward, and golden boot winner Ashley Cupido sent off in controversial fashion.
The South Africa U23 international was caught in a tussle with Ngoanamello Rammala, with the latter appearing to make a headbutt movement, which sparked an angry reaction from Cupido – who was then sent off with a straight red in what looked like a simple finger point.
However, Spurs continued to probe after some nervy moments in defence and Morne Nel opened the scoring and his account for the season with a cracking effort from range.
After a neat build-up, the former SuperSport United man hit one into the bottom corner with his weaker left foot to secure a vital three points for the Urban Warriors.
With nine points, The Team of Choice need to win both Casric away and Spurs at the Harry Gwala and hope for a superior goal difference to retain their top-flight status.
Meanwhile the second-tier debutants lead by Bucs Mthombeni have no chance for promotion after three consecutive defeats.
