Panorama clinched a pivotal victory over Lenasia, setting the stage for a decisive showdown with Rush next week, with the league title hanging in the balance.

Amidst the ongoing goalkeeper crisis, Panorama had to think on their feet, placing outfield player Almeida, fresh off an injury, between the sticks. This tactical change resulted in a newly-formed central defensive duo of O'Sullivan and Liu, flanked by the dependable Ho Lam and Neale. Liu's defensive transition meant Olgiati ushered Tuffney into the midfield alongside Bailey and Goncalves.

From the outset, Panorama showcased an aggressive offensive strategy, hunting for that vital opening goal. Their persistence paid off when a thunderous Bailey strike was followed up by Olgiati, who tapped in from close range. Lenasia, however, displayed resilience, leveling the score within 10 minutes.

Undeterred, Panorama maintained their dominance, swiftly transitioning the ball to their wingers, where Olgiati and Mdunge were perpetual threats. This strategic maneuver bore fruit when Egbers released Goncalves, who unleashed a sublime 25-meter shot into the top corner.

The momentum stayed with Panorama as Tuffney's free-kick took a fortuitous deflection, leaving the Lenasia goalkeeper stranded. As the second half commenced, Panorama extended their lead to 4-1, thanks to Tuffney's deft chip inside the box.

Subsequent substitutions saw Da Fonseca, Gomes, and Cabaleira come on, followed by Jansen and Miles. This shift led to a brief period of instability, with Lenasia capitalizing and netting twice in rapid succession, narrowing the gap to 4-3. Echoes of the Randfontein match seemed to haunt Panorama. However, their nerves were calmed by Mdunge, who delivered with a signature strike from the left, sealing the game at 5-3.

All things considered, Panorama delivered a commendable performance, teeing up an exciting finish to the league next week.

Some stats from the game:

• This was the 18th game between the two sides, with Panorama winning 11 of them (and the last consecutive 4, accumulating 18 goals).
• Tuffney's goal was the 100th goal of the 2023 campaigns. Panorama is only 5 goals shy of their overall record (106 in 2019)
• Bailey's assists now consolidate his 2nd overall position in Panorama's history, and moved him to first in the assists number for 2023
• Mdunge's spectacular winter form continues with his 11th goal in only 10 games (and leading in the 2023 calendar year with 17 goals)
• Goncalves 7+11 G+A numbers are by far his best in a calendar year, surpassing his record of 6 goals (in 2019)
• Benites long consecutive streak of matches played is now over at  25, putting him in the 10th overall. (Mdunge at 22 and Goncalves at 13 are now in the top 2 positions for the current longest playing streaks).