Highlanders surge ahead in promotion play-offs

Calistus Kolantsho | Monday May 5, 2014 13:43

 

Highlanders took the lead in the 47th minute when Otlaarongwa Nthumolang broke the stalemate with a stunning strike from outside the box.

Boys equalised in the 60th minute through a deflected effort from Mogomotsi Kebaitse.

The match was settled in the 79th minute when Baitshenyetsi Gabohole scored for Highlanders to make it 2-1. The two sides meet in the second leg in Gaborone to decide who qualifies for the Premier League.

Boys came into the match with an attacking mentality, fielding two strikers, Orapeleng Nkwe and Galefetoge Kenaope. However, the formation gave Boys problems, as they were unable to play well.

Highlanders enjoyed better possession from the first whistle and posed a threat going forward.

They sent a warning to their opponents in the seventh minute when Tapiwa Nzamanjiva hit a tricky shot and forced a save from the goalkeeper.

Gabohole nearly broke the deadlock in the 39th minute but his header ballooned over the crossbar while Nkwe’s attempt hit the woodwork in the 41st minute.

Gabohole was unlucky in the 62nd minute when Mmoloki Sedimo saved his effort. Boys introduced the fresh legs of Bosa Kenosi in the 70th minute pulling out Nkwe who was having a quiet afternoon.

Highlanders’ coach, Paul Moyo said the game did not go according to plan because his side conceded a goal though he was happy with the win and the hard work of his players.

Boys mentor, Wire Kaelo admitted that he started the game badly and made mistakes. He said that Highlanders enjoyed possession and this made life difficult for his players.

“I decided to take out Nkwe because he was under pressure from Highlanders defence. That took him out of the game.

I also took out Kebaitse because he was not giving us what we wanted,” he said.