Francistown derby rolls back the hands of time
Koketso Kgoboge | Tuesday February 2, 2016 14:52
Masses filled the old Francistown Stadium on Sunday to witness the old derby and both sides produced end-to-end stuff throughout the 90 minutes, reminiscent of the good, old days.
ECCO had the best of chances, first in the opening half when TAFIC’s goalkeeper was called to produce a remarkable save after a rebound from a corner kick fell to Bokang Malabola who drilled a low drive towards the bottom corner, but the latter was alert.
Their second glorious chance came in the second half with Walter Moyo crossing to the far post and Oarabile Powe heading back into the box. The ball found Pontsho Sephutho, but TAFIC goalkeeper pulled a spectacular fingertip save to deny Mamojadiskie a goal. Matjimenyenga were equally good in the round of play but lacked urgency upfront.
Mamoja’s coach, Texan Phiri welcomed the draw and praised the spectators. “The backing was overwhelming. The attendance was exceptional I must say. It is the first time I have seen so many people in our game. If we could have this every game, it will really push our boys. I am happy with a draw; it’s a true reflection of the game. TAFIC took the game to us and we played above par and it was a tough game,” he said.
His TAFIC counterpart, Atshele Molapi, was equally happy with the point. “We wanted to close the gap and we are disappointed in that respect, but I am happy with a point. It was a high tempo game. My boys are inexperienced, but they showed character in a derby game under a loud atmosphere and against an experienced side,” he said.
On Saturday, Sua Flamingoes reclaimed top by spot dethroning Mahalapye Hotspurs with a 1-0 home win. Flamingoes had dominated the opening round of the league until they relinquished their lead to the Mahalapye side in the last two games of the first round. Flamingoes are now on 27 points, a point above Hotspurs.
In other games, Maun Tigers beat Kazungula 3-0, TASC and Real Movers played to a 2-all draw while Tsabothe beat struggling Palapye All Stars 3-1 and GNT won 3-0 against Tonota FC.