Premier Soccer League

The Clever Boys looked down and out after Sibusiso Khumalo’s opener was followed by Onismor Bhasera’s dismissal, but club captain Vilakazi hit back with interest. And although Sameehg Doutie pulled one back late on for Matsatsantsa, the hosts held on to record a memorable victory.

Mame Niang missed a penalty in stoppage time to secure what would have been a valuable point for United.

Both sides started the game off brightly as they looked to gain an early advantage in a tie that would go a long way in securing a top-three spot.

Khumalo marked his return to the starting XI with a cracking goal in the 22nd minute. The fullback’s low-driven free-kick, following a foul on Thuso Phala from Papy Faty, beat Moeneeb Josephs for his second goal of the campaign.

Wits were dealt another blow in the 33rd minute. Bhasera received his marching orders following a strong tackle on Thabo Moloi.

Despite being a man short, it was the home side who found the back of the net next. Vilakazi converted from the penalty spot in the 38th minute after S’boniso Gumede was brought down inside the area by Moloi.

United had a chance to edge in front just before the break but Mor Diouf overcooked his effort after doing well to create space for himself inside the area.

After the break, SuperSport coach Cavin Johnson threw on the likes of Mame Niang, Bennett Chenene and David Mathebula as he looked to secure all three points.

It was the hosts, though, who took the lead, as Vilakazi latched onto a superb flick by Sthembiso Ngcobo in the 71st minute, to make it 2-1.

The Bafana Bafana midfielder got his third goal six minutes later, rounding Ronwen Williams before sticking the ball into an empty net.

Doutie reduced the deficit in the 84th minute before winning a penalty in stoppage time after he was brought down by Josephs. The former Orlando Pirates shot-stopper, however, made up for his error, brilliantly denying Niang to secure the spoils for his side

The win moves Wits within one point of third-placed SuperSport.