Liberian Laffor, 36, scores to reward faith of Chippa United

Johannesburg (AFP) – Veteran Liberian Anthony Laffor thanked Chippa United coach Dan Malesela after scoring the goal that set up a 2-1 South African FA Cup quarter-final victory over Richards Bay.

The 36-year-old bagged his first goal for the club after just five minutes by pouncing on a careless back pass and chipping the ball over goalkeeper Ludwe Mpakumpaku.

Mokhele Maloisane doubled the lead after half-time before Richards Bay set up a tense finish by reducing arrears in the final minute of regular time through Siyabonga Vilane.

“When I was released by Mamelodi Sundowns last year a number of South African clubs wanted me to join them,” said 2016 CAF Champions League winner Laffor.

“Once I spoke to Dan and (club chairman) ‘Chippa’ (Siviwe Mpengesi), I knew Chippa were the club for me and I want to reward the faith they had in me by scoring goals.” 

Laffor counts among his friends President George Weah of Liberia, who in 1995 became the only African so far to be crowned FIFA World Player of the Year.

“I am actually close to two leaders,” said Laffor, referring to Weah and Sundowns owner Patrice Motsepe, who was elected president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) this weekend.

Chippa were joined in the semi-finals by fellow league strugglers TTM, who scored in each half to win 2-0 at Black Leopards, and Pretoria Callies.

Callies edged fellow second-division side Cape Town All Stars 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw following extra time.

The other last-four spot will be filled by title-holders Mamelodi Sundowns or Orlando Pirates, whose eagerly awaited showdown has been delayed until April 15 by African commitments.

Sundowns are chasing a South African Premiership, FA Cup and CAF Champions League treble while CAF Confederation Cup hopefuls Pirates won the other domestic cup competition this season, the MTN8.