An own goal provided Benni McCarthy with a winning start to his coaching career as Cape Town City edged Polokwane City 1-0 in their MTN8 quarterfinal yesterday.
Sibusiso Mbonani added the latest chapter to McCarthy's glittering legacy with a header into the back of his own net to allow the hosts a place in the semifinals for a second successive season.
The Citizens were rookies 12 months ago but looked much more polished, even if a little fatigued at this early stage of their second season, and were value for their win."We are a work in progress but the signs are there that we can play. I'm proud and privileged to be a part of this. The boys played for me too, making me really happy. But we have to work hard before our next game," said the 39-year-old.
McCarthy's tactical approach involved high pressing and more of a midfield build-up, but it took a while for his charges to settle into a rhythm as the quick tempo of the early exchanges led to a regular turnover of possession.
But City were the more adventurous from the start and should have been in the lead in the 26th minute only for marksman Lehlohonolo Majoro to be ruled offside.
TV replays, however, showed it was a poor decision from linesman Xolani Duma.
The visiting Rise and Shine could well have then taken advantage of a lucky let off to take the lead when Rodney Ramagalela broke clear, but as he cut inside to shoot had his path blocked...