Highlanders return to premier league
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday May 12, 2014 12:02
BR Highlanders of Mahalapye have returned to the Premier League after overcoming Rolling Boys in a two-legged promotion play-off.
Highlanders won the first leg 2-1 in Mahalapye and held Boys to a goalless draw before a capacity crowd at Wonder Sporting Ground in the return leg on Saturday to bounce back. A stampede almost occurred at the gate as supporters pushed to get in.
Boys started the match on a high note with forwards Kabo Matlhare, Orapeleng Nkwe and pint-sized Buang Dithebe looking dangerous. Despite the threat from Boys, it was Highlanders which had the first attempt at goal in the 12th minute when Otlaarongwa Nthumolang tested goalkeeper Mmoloki Sedimo.
They threatened three minutes later when Thapelo Senoya’s long-range shot sailed over the crossbar. Senoya was at it again in the 20th minute when his shot went narrowly wide.
The onslaught continued in the 25th minute when Baitshenyetsi Gabohole rattled the woodwork. Boys tried to stem the tide with Nkwe shooting wide in the 29th minute.
The striker forced a save from Highlanders’ goalkeeper, Kago Mmopi in the 47th minute.
Highlanders had to make a forced substitution after Tapiwa Nyamanjiva was injured. Omphile Motlhatlhobi replaced him.
Veteran striker, Galefetoge Kenaope came in for Nkwe in the 65th minute and changed the complexion of the game with good runs on the right flank.
Boys’ coach, Wire Kaelo told Monitor Sport that the game was tough and gave credit to his charges.
He said that his side put up a brilliant performance and they are going back to the drawing board to prepare for next season.
“We came into the match trailing 2-1. We had to attack with caution. If we had got a goal, we were going to qualify for the Premier League,” said Kaelo.
Highlanders’ tactician, Paul Moyo said his players followed his instructions. He said he told his players to sit back and make sure they do not concede. Besides, they had to be careful when attacking.
Moyo said they now have to map the way forward as they venture into the Premier League. The Mahalapye side was kicked out of the competition last year for failure to pay subscription fees.
Teams line-ups
Highlanders: Mmopi, Thatayaone Gabothuse, Brian Kobe, Gofamodimo Samuel, Leteng Legopelo, Boikobo Osupile, Nyamanjiva (Motlhatlhobi 60), Dipogiso Metlhaleng, Baitshenyetsi Gabohole, Nthumolang and Senoya.
Boys: Sedimo, Mogami Mogami, Oaitse Joseph, Osenyeng Ntwampe, John Molefinyana, Keabaitse, Matlhare, Dithebe (Keitumetse Baithumi 70), Ramaabya, Nkwe (Kenaope 65) and David Botlhasitse.