Last minute heartbreak for Notwane

Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Monday October 21, 2013 15:37

 

BDF XI missed their playmaker, Ofentse Mmipi and defender, Mompati Thuma.

Notwane on the other hand started with their usual first 11 except in the goalkeeping department where Itumeleng Selapa replaced Siamang Kgosipula.

The game started at a slow pace despite the favouable cool weather conditions. As the tempo increased, BDF XI created the first scoring chance.

Striker, Saukani Zulu controlled the ball well on the edge of the box and beat Selapa with a well-taken shot, but Kgomari Mothuba found himself in the right place at the right time to clear the danger. He cleared the ball before it crossed the goal line, much to the relief of Notwane supporters.

Notwane's two dangermen, Manqoba Ngwenya and Lesego Lubinda were closely guarded by BDF XI defence for the entire first half. Ngwenya's only attempt at goal in the first half came towards the end, but he ballooned the ball over the bar from a free kick.

BDF XI had another chance to take the lead in the dying minutes of the first half but Selapa made a miraculous save to deny Mokgathi. He pulled another fantastic save in the second half when he thwarted Saukani Zulu from a one-on-one situation.  With the game heading for a draw, BDF XI made another good move and midfielder, Bonolo Phuduhudu unleashed a long range shot that shaved the cross bar before going out.

Substitute, Pako Moloi had a chance to give Notwane the lead, but shot wide. A few moments later, the miss was punished when Mokgathi broke through the defence before slotting the ball past the advancing, Selapa in the last minute of the game.

The victory kept BDF XI in the race for the title after log leaders, Mochudi Centre Chiefs defeated Nico United in Molepolole yesterday.