Masitaoka, Chiefs Clash Stalemate
Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Monday March 2, 2020 15:08
With the home side looking to secure their automatic promotion dream to the elite league, and Chiefs aiming for at least a promotional play off spot, the two sides faced off before an impressive crowd as supporters came in numbers to rally behind their teams.
The results mean that Masitaoka’s lead at the top of the league is reduced to three points. This is after second-placed Mogoditshane Fighters won their game earlier on the day. Chiefs also remain at position four with 25 points with just five games to go before the end of campaign.
The game got off on a high pace, as both teams were eager to get an early goal. The two sides created chances early on, but failed to convert. Masitaoka were first to get their chance, but striker Christopher Lemme headed wide.
At the other end, veteran striker Terrence Mandaza saw his headed effort saved by goalkeeper, Tumisang Selolwane in the fifth minute. Selolwane was called upon to make another save still from Mandaza’s goal bound header in the 12th minute. With the half-time approaching, both teams toned down the tempo of the match, in the process not creating chances hence going to break goalless. Chiefs came back a much-improved side in the second-half, putting Masitaoka’s defence under pressure early on. The pressure nearly paid off as Mandaza’s header hit the post while a moment later, Selolwane pulled off a brilliant save to deny the Chiefs striker again.
Selolwane had a brilliant game as he thwarted all Chiefs effort in the second-half despite Magosi having an upperhand in the second-half.
Chiefs head coach, Elias Chinyemba was unimpressed after the match. He said his team failed to stick to their game plan but fell into the trap of adopting the ‘long ball’ style played by the opponents.
He also said lady luck wasn’t on their side as they missed several chances to convert their chances.
Masitaoka coach, Nelson Olebile said it was a tough, high tactical game. He said his troops played well against a tough side.
“A tough game, we got to take this point, which we will count it along the way. It was a very tough and competitive game. Both teams wanted it. They defended and attacked. We are very fortunate that we couldn’t concede at some stage. The intensity of the game, the speed and play was good. I think the people who are here got what they deserved today,” he said.
Teams:
Masitaoka: Selolwane, Karabo Radikolana, Thabiso Keitumetse, Basiamisi Sebapalo, Tiro Pheresi, Kakanyo Kethubile, Monageng Thaele, Koketso Majafi, Topo Piet (Gaamangwe Sethibe 80th), Emmanuel Ditodi (Tolani Olaoye 80th), Lemme
Centre Chiefs: Otsile Ben, Gaamangwe Thebe, Mmoloki Kafuko, Ronald Lelemane, Kabo Motlhanke, Atholang Jeremane, Koketso Mphokothi (Cyprian Masule 83rd), Thamiso Gagoangwe, Mandaza (Kago Matshoba 67th), Amogelang Reetsang, Maatla Magosha
Masitaoka 0
Mochudi Centre Chiefs 0