Nico, Lions share spoils in drab tie

Ivy Matlho | Monday October 5, 2015 10:13

Both teams failed to make meaningful raids with few scoring opportunities in the opening session.

Nico were guilty of committing early fouls with Nelson Moreetsi chopping a Lions player in the 26th minute and the visitors were awarded a penalty. Matthews Nyamadzawo dispatched the spot-kick to hand his side the early initiative.

The goal, however, did not push the game a notch up as both teams continued to play at a slow pace.

Ten minutes after Nyamadzawo gave his team the lead, Zambian Christopher Musonda levelled matters through a brilliant, but contested goal. An argument ensured between the match officials and Gilport players who were claiming the ball did not cross the line.

The remonstrations resulted in two Gilport Lions, Sekgabo Molebatsi and Mlungisi Ndlovu receiving cautions.

There were no further incidents as the team went for the break tied at 1-1. After recess, Nico picked pace but Lions refused to be cowed.

Both teams showed eagerness to find the net, but no luck was on both sides.

Gilport introduced Unobatsha Mbaiwa and Edward Mosole while Nico introduced Spencer Ngalande and Allen Ndodole. Musonda and Lebogang Ditsile displayed good play, but were unable to give their respective teams the three points.

Nico coach, Wesley Mondo said his players were not able to create enough chances.

He, however, said his players were able to defend well.

“We did not win because we were not able to create chances. It is better to draw than to lose at home,” he said.

Gilport Lions coach, Paradzai Mandivenga said he was happy with his side’s performance despite being ‘frustrated by the officials’.

“The players performed well. They were frustrated by the match officials, but they managed to play a good game,” he said.

 

Nico

Kagiso Rankabekwa, Thabiso Batang, Trinity Nko, Nelson Moreetsi, Onkabetse Seforo, Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Arnold Mampori (Allen Ndodole 74min), Richard Legwaila (Spencer Ngalade 57min), Christopher Musonda, Gift Moyo, Khumoetsile Kufingwa.

 

Gilport Lions

Lesego Bosekeng, Sekgabo Moleatsi, Bonang Monyatsi, Kabo Molome, Lebogang Ditsile, Tumisang Sekanonyane, Kabelano Mooketsane (Edward Mosole 69min), Bakang Moeng (Unobatsha Mbaiwa 57min), Mlungisi Ndlovu, Chrispen Mbewe, Matthews Nyamadzawo.

 

Nico 1 (Musonda 36th)

Lions 1 (Nyamadzabo 26th)