GU Survives Goal Scare

BOITUMELO KHUTSAFALO
Staff Writer | Monday June 22, 2009 00:00

 

The goal came at a time when many had already thought the game would end in a stalemate.

This would have been a major blow, especially since their nearest competitors, Mochudi Centre Chiefs, were busy hammering Great North Tigers (GNT) in a game that ended with 6-0 score in Molepolole.  GU coach, Mike Sithole made numerous changes in the first line up. Kenny Ledikwe who is naturally a striker was roped in to play at the right back ahead of Gabriel Bokhutlo who had dominated the position since joining the team at the start of the season.

Bosarutweng Magola, who is naturally a defender, played in front of the defence with Tshepo 'Schoolboy' Molefe on the bench. He (Magola) struggled to adapt to his new position until he was substituted in the second half. Another surprise absentee from the team was striker Sageby Sandaka who did not even make it to the bench. The log leaders did this perhaps to try new combinations after the recent sluggish performance.

For the entire first half, GU tried by all means to get a goal but found the going tough against determined BMC.  In the second half, Sithole made double substitutions, realising that time was running out. In the 52nd minute, he introduced Chikomo for Tiroyamodimo Mohambi and Molefe for Magola.

The substitutions paid dividends, as GU got creative and caused more trouble for BMC defence. Midfielder, Ofentse Nato could not believe his eyes when BMC goalkeeper, Chenjerai Dube, tipped his powerful long-range effort over the bar in the 62nd minute.

BMC however were determined not to get intimidated and also showed their strengths when striker, Kenanao Kgetholetsile's header from the corner kick sailed narrowly wide with GU goalkeeper, Raphael Nthwane completely beaten.

In the 75th minute, Sithole made another substitution and brought in Bokhutlo for Bashin Modisaotsile.

The substitutions meant that Ledikwe returned to a more attacking role as a right winger while Branco Molokwane, who started at the heart of defence, switched to the left back position. GU broke the deadlock in the 40th minute when Stephen Maposa disposed BMC midfielder, Mlamuli Phakati and released Chikomo, whose stunning shot gave Dube no chance. The victory means that GU has now collected a total of 62 points with six games left.