The home side's ninth victory in 21 matches earned them a

valuable three points and moved them to fifth spot on the table,

while eleven-placed Chiefs suffered their seventh loss in 19 games.

Leopards led 1-0 at half-time via the boot of captain Thokozani

Mnguni in the 43rd minute.

Chiefs defender Isaac Mabotsa fouled Sibusiso Dlamini on the

edge of the 18-area box and referee Bennett Ditshego awarded a

place kick which was converted by Mnguni.

Stimulated by the goal, Leopards continued with their hard work

in the second half.

Chiefs, who were always caught flat-footed, made a change in

their strike-force which failed to convert several scoring chances.

Sibusiso Mkhize replaced Kenny Niemach in the 53rd minute. The

move seemed to bring some sting up front, but Leopards defenders

were equal to the tasks.

A concerned Chiefs coach Muhsin Ertugral substituted striker

Rene Richards for Josia Macamo in the 70th minute.

Leopards mentor Gavin Hunt responded by bringing on Coxwell

Ratshivhadelo for Stanley Sibeko, and the late sub lived up to the

coach's expectations.

With his first touch, Ratshivhadelo looked to have scored the

second goal but it was Chiefs' defender Nhlanhla Kubheka who tapped

home an own goal in an attempt at clearing a cross in the 83rd

minute - this, much to the delight of the fans.

Chiefs tried to get back into the game but just could not match

Leopards pound for pound.