Crowd trouble mar GU-Gunners clash

Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Monday April 14, 2014 12:44

 

Supporters of the two teams fought with the GU brigade suffering serious injuries from the onslaught from Gunners fans.

Referee, Tirelo Mositwane was forced to stop the game for about 15 minutes as GU supporters ran away from the eastern stands. They moved to the grand stand with some of them getting treatment for injuries by the medical teams, while others were rushed to hospital. The incident marred what was relatively an exciting match.

Gunners went into the match having mastered the art of giant killing following victories against Mochudi Centre Chiefs and BDF XI. They were under pressure to maintain the good run against teams chasing the title. They looked the better team in the first half, creating some good scoring chances. Pako Modikwa wasted a chance before GU goalkeeper, Noah Maposa made a good save, punching away Monageng Thaele’s shot.

GU lacked creativity in the midfield in the absence of Jackie Mothatego. They only threatened on the left wing where former Gunners’ man, Kgololo Kgogobi was playing. When he pounced in the 54th minute to give GU the lead, violence broke out. Before the goal, the Reds had started posing danger in the match after the introduction of Mandla Mgadla for the ineffective Obonwe Maome.

The goal came after utility player, Tebogo Sosome started a move in the midfield and released Edwin Olerile who set up Kgogobi on the left. The speedy winger unleashed a cracker that  beat Gunners’ goalkeeper, Wagarre Dikago from a tight angle.

The goal opened up the game with Gunners adding numbers forward. However, the momentum died when supporters clashed, resulting in injuries. The game stopped for about 15 minutes to allow GU supporters to move to the other stands.

On resumption the Reds continued to run the show, creating numerous chances. They were rewarded when substitute, Karabo Phiri scored towards the end of the game following another brilliant move. Ronald Chikomo could have made it 3-0 moments later, but his header went over the bar.

The victory kept GU in the race for the league title with two games remaining. Gunners on the other hand now have to win their last two games to boost their hopes of finishing in the top eight.