Gilport Return To The Premier League
Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Monday May 6, 2019 11:53
The first half was a dull affair and it was evident that both sides played with too much caution. A draw was enough to win the league for Gilport Lions whilst United needed all the three points to survive, provided their closest rivals lost on the day.
Both teams failed to create any clear-cut chances in the first 30 minutes of the game.
The first chance came in the 35th minute when United goalkeeper was called to make a save from close range following a set piece.
The ball had fallen on to the path of Lone Taele who shot tamely. United nearly scored half as they broke with a quick counter, but decision-making on the other hand let them down in the final third.
The teams went for recess deadlocked.The second half started with both teams attacking each other, but it was Lions who seemed more determined to take it. Lions were rewarded in the 57th minute when Tshepang Molefe scored after a howler by the United keeper to send their fans into a frenzy. Afterwards the two teams continued to attack each other, but Lions managed to hold on until the final whistle.
After the game, the winning coach said although the match was dull with both teams very cautious, he is happy they won to gain automatic promotion.
“We could have scored three or four goals second half, but I am happy that we gained automatic promotion. Job well done to the players, management and everybody involved. This was a three-year plan because we didn’t think we were going to be promoted, but the boys exceeded our expectations. I was with the team in the premier league. We got relegated under my watch and I put the team back under my watch now it depends on management if they are going to renew my contract,” he said.
For United coach James Tshekedi, this has been a difficult season, but it is back to the drawing board for the team.
“These results mean we have been relegated to second division. It’s been more than seven years since we played in the division so we must be prepared for it. The boys played well, they tried but it wasn’t to be. It’s difficult to say where we lost it this season, but I can say we lacked a bit of quality and not playing as a team for the better part of it,” he said.
Teams:
Modipane United: Bernard Moloi, Karabo Moakaeya, Emmanuel Letuane, Karabo Segotlong, Karabo Raselebogo, Bokang Gobuiwang, Thapelo Ramokono (Phatsimo Ratereki), Itlhobogeng Monnaapula, Kgosietsile Nthobelang, Wame Ryan Kgosing, Kamogelo Jabeng (Mooketsi Mokgweetsi).
Gilport Lions: Mabitso Rapowa, Tshepo Ramhenngwa, Lone Taele, Boikobo Kebadile, Musa Tamokate (Katlego Mosekiemang), Lame Mogewra, Serati Semadi, Babedi Nchoko, Tshepang Molefe, Thabiso Keaikitse, Chabaesele Dithupi(Moemedi Mopaka).