Chiefs maintain good run

Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Monday August 25, 2014 15:48

Mochudi Centre Chiefs striker, Senatla Molefe (in black and white) tussles with Notwane right back, Kereng Mpetang during their game on Saturday. Molefe scored one of the goals as Chiefs defeated Notwane 3-1 PIC: KAGISO ONKATSWITSE

Out of three games, Chiefs have scored a total of nine goals. It all started with a 2-0 victory over Extension Gunners. They went on to thrash other title favourites, BDF XI 4-2 before they came from behind to beat Notwane on Saturday. Against Notwane, coach Mike Sithole started off with his trusted attackers, Pontsho Moloi, Bonolo Fraizer, Lemponye Tshireletso and Senatla Molefe.

However the game was more interesting in the middle of the park where Chiefs had assigned Lesego Galenamotlhale and Kenamile Mani. Notwane on the other hand deployed Thabo Mbole, Keorapetse Seloiso and Kgaodi Odirile to try and contain Chiefs.

Although it was a fairly balanced game in terms of possession, Chiefs created more chances and Notwane survived when Moloi hit the upright moments after kick off. Notwane goalkeeper, Itumeleng Selapa managed to save the situation from the rebound.

Both sides continued to create chances, but were at most times thwarted by both goalkeepers. Notwane opened an account with just seven minutes before the end of the first half following a counter attack move. In trying to close down space, Chiefs goalkeeper, Raphael Nthwane left his goalposts, but Lemogang Maswena rounded him off before slotting the ball in an empty net.

However Notwane’s celebrations were short-lived as Chiefs equalised two minutes later through Bonolo Fraizer. Fraizer, who packs a powerful shot took one of his usual long range efforts just before half time and Notwane survived again when the ball hit an upright before going out. The game went into a recess with both sides tied at a 1-1 score line.

As in the first half, the second part of the game was a balanced affair until Notwane committed a terrible mistake at the back, and Chiefs took the lead for the first time in the game. Notwane defender, Kgomari Mothuba tried to head the ball back to his goalkeeper without realising that the goalkeeper was out of his line. Selapa tried to make a save but could only touch the ball with his fingertips and Molefe capitalised. Molefe who joined Chiefs from relegated side, Unaio Flamengo Santos, has been a revelation for Magosi and has become the crowd’s favourite. Despite his tiny body structure, Molefe has managed to do well against strong defenders in the league. Both sides made substitutions with Chiefs looking to protect and increase their lead while Notwane searched for an equalizer.

Tendai Nyumasi made his official debut in the league for Magosi, replacing Mani and Kekaetswe Moloi coming in for Fraizer. Nyumasi joined Chiesf from ECCO City Greens but missed the first two games awaiting his work permit. Notwane introduced Pako Gaofose for Masisi who struggled against Chiefs’ defence.

Chiefs increased the lead through Tshireletso from a free kick after yet another defensive blunder between Mothuba and goalkeeper, Selapa. Chiefs remain perched at the top of the log standings and travel to Maun next for an encounter with rookies, Sankoyo Bush Bucks. Notwane on the other hand have now lost two out of three matches played so far.

They started the season well, defeating city rivals, Gaborone United (GU) 3-2 before they lost 1-0 to Police XI. Their next time is against BDF XI who have also lost two out of three games they have played this season.