A second half hat-trick by Ranga Chivaviro earned Gallants a 3-1 win over the Chilli Boys.

Chippa took a 1-0 break into the half time break courtesy of a Etiosa Ighodaro goal in the 34th minute.

Chivaviro scored penalties in the 52nd and 55th minutes to hand his team the lead, before sealing the win in the 71st minute.

The win means that Gallants have now put a three point cushion between themselves and the bottom of the log Maritzburg United. Maritzburg does however have a game in hand over Gallants, but the teams will also still face each other at the Harry Gwala Stadium in May.

Gallants coach, Raymond Madaka, speaks of his team’s three valuable points.

“Every game where you get goals and you win is a good game,” said Mdaka.

“Even when you play a very good game, but you don't score, it can't be called a good game.

“Credit to the boys - I think you boys really worked hard. Coming back from being a goal down and then scoring three times in the second half is not a simple thing.”

In Wednesday night’s other game, Golden Arrows held Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw in Lamontville.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport