Bokamoso�s stunning comeback lands Coca-Cola cup

Spira Tlhankane | Thursday July 16, 2015 14:08

In a pulsating match played at the National Stadium, Bokamoso produced a stunning comeback from 4-1 down to earn a 5-4 win that left Maoka JSS in shock.

After conceding four goals in the first-half, the Bokamoso side appeared dead and buried but made a great recovery.

The game was without doubt the best in the BISA finals and started at a brisk pace.

It was not long before Bokamoso took the lead through Olaetse Ramokapane’s header after a Maoka goalkeeper, Wilfred Jenamo committed a mistake.

Bokamoso’s lead was shortlived as Maoka’s captain, Moabi Motlhaetsi capitalised on another goalkeeper blunder to level the scores 10 minutes later. Motlhaetsi completed his brace when he worked his way into the Bokamoso area, dribbled past the keeper and slotted the ball into the back of the empty net.

The Maoka JSS attacking midfielder then completed his hat trick to ensure that he walks away with the match ball.

  However, it was not long before the fourth goal was on board for the hungry Maoka side and the shortest man on the field Katlo ‘Neymar’ Gontse worked the ball effortlessly into the far right-hand corner.

The game went to the break and it seemed over for the Bokamoso side that was full of defensive errors.

The second half was different and Bokamoso managed to pull one back in the 55th minute through captain, Tshiamo ‘Messi’ Plaatjie. The goal ignited sparks from Bokamoso and 10 minutes later Michael Mandevani powered the ball into the net to inspire a great fight-back.

Shima Malgas grabbed the equaliser with 12 minutes remaining to spark celebrations within the National Stadium.

To finish the great comeback, Mandevani scored the winning goal with two minutes remaining. He completed his brace in the process and put the ball at the top right corner in clinical fashion. Winning coach, Paul Mizi said he was impressed with the boys’ amazing comeback.

“It was a mind game; just because Maoka beat them in the early stages.  The boys thought it was impossible for them to turn the game around,” he said.

Mizi said he told the boys to pull up their socks in the second half if they wanted to win the cup.

Mizi is also a development coach for Gaborone United, which is where most of the boys come from. Tshwaragano JSS from Maun finished third behind beaten finalists, Maoka.

In the girls’ Under-15 category, Radisele JSS won gold, while Ntebogang JSS came in second. Radikolo JSS from Kgatleng were third.

Sesholo JSS defended their Under-17 title, while Radisele finished second. Maoka JSS were second runners-up. 

Tswapong region’s Ramokgonami JSS emerged as winners in the boys’ Under-17 categor, while Selepa JSS from the north came in second. Ledumadumane JSS from Mogoditshane managed to scoop the bronze medal.