Leopards striker Bongani Masanabo scored a brace and Christopher Natshitdzivhe the other goal to sink the more fancied Chiefs.

As early as the 10th minute Leopards striker Sibusiso Dlamini made the visitors intentions clear with an attacking foray but Chiefs goalkeeper Brian Baloyi parried the shot for a corner. Two minutes later Dlamini intercepted a pass from Baloyi and was tripped inside the box.

Referee Harry Likitlane pointed to the spot and Natshitdzivhe nailed the opportunity.

In the 17th minute, Dlamini created the second chance for the visitors, laying on a superb pass to fellow striker Masanabo who beat Baloyi in the far right corner to go 2-0 up.

Chiefs midfielder Jabu Pule attempted to pull a goal back for the homeside towards the end of the half but Leopards goalkeeper Water Khumalo was able to parry it for a corner kick.

In the second half coach Walter Rautman's charges came back strongly, attacking Chiefs regularly. It therefore came as no surprise when Masanabo headed in the third goal in the 66th minute after receiving a cross from the reliable Dlamini.

Chiefs were denied again when midfielder John "Shoes"

Moshoeu, who replaced defender Nhlahla Kubheka, hit the upright.

Following the victory, Leopards now have 27 points from 27 games, moving from 15th to 12th on the log while Chiefs remain in fifth place with 40 points from 26 games.

Team:

Baloyi, McCarthy, Nzama, Kubeka (Moshoeu 67th), Nengomasha, Pule, Mooki, Fredericks, Sithole (Radebe 60th), Permall.