Masitaoka complete double over Systems

Kabelo Boranabi | Monday March 20, 2023 12:32

FLYING HIGH: Masitaoka's victory against Security Systems boosted their chances of finishing the league in the top eight bracket PIC: PHATSIMO KAPENG

Majatlhaga are mathematically just a few points from confirming their status in the league for the next season and boosted their top eight position against Systems.

Two minutes into the tie, Systems announced their intentions as Letlhogonolo Chenjela tried from just outside the box but the goalkeeper was up to the task. Chenjela then came close again on the 20th minute with a free kick attempt. Masitaoka took the lead against the run of play as Moabi Phuthego beat the goalkeeper with a deflected effort on the 26th minute. The goal brought Masitaoka into the tie and had a bit of an upper hand over their opponents but were let down by their finishing.

With just three minutes to the break, Morris Ruzivo failed to hit the target from a free kick. Majatlhaga held a 1-0 lead into recess. Six minutes in to the second half, half time substitute, Molaodi Tlhalefang saw his shot parried back in to play before it was cleared for a corner. On the 55th minute, Chenjela forced a fingertips save from the goalkeeper with an effort from outside the box.

Masitaoka, however, doubled the lead on the 76th minute as Brian Mankanku on the wing laid a low cross for Ambrosius Amseb to tap in. The goal settled the tie as Masitaoka completed a double over Systems this season. “I think these points today are pushing us away from relegation, they are crucial points. I think getting to 34 points is a big number for us in this league. I think if we can get more points in the future we will play without pressure. Coming into this game and playing a team that we beat in the first round, it was difficult, it was a grudge match. But again we did not undermine Systems, they were all over us in the first half, it was a very difficult match,” Masitaoka coach, Mandla Mpofu said.

The teams:

Systems: Mike Masule, Daniel Montshiwa, Oratile Mogatusi, Kefilwe Sekgopi, Bophelo Macheng, Walter Sande (Molaodi Tlhalefang), Odirile Lekoba (Thato Ogopotse), Morris Rusivo, Kenanao Kgetholetsile (Bokang Rathipana), Takunda Sadiki (Poloko Nkalolang), Letlhogonolo Chenjela (Tawana Mbakile)

Masitaoka: Thabo Motswagole, Tapiwa Sepatela, Ivan Kamberipa, Obusitswe Gabadise, Thabang Khuduga, Marius Kotze, Olebogeng Ramotse, Moabi Phuthego (Monty Enosa), Ambrosius Amseb, Brian Mankanku (Obakeng Ramotlhwa), Christopher Lemme (Lethabo Ogotseng)

Cautions: Sande, Amseb, Ranku

Systems 0 Masitaoka 2 (Phuthego 26th, 76th)