Young Zebras off to a bad start
Calistus Kolantsho | Thursday December 8, 2016 18:00
However, that was not to be as Swaziland emerged 2-0 victors with first and second half strikes from Bhekani Mthembu and Ali Matse.
Botswana showed character in the first few minutes of the game with confidence on the ball. It was not before long that the Swazis upped their game and immediately launched an attack through Gamedze Saviola after Botswana goalkeeper, Tumisang Selolwane moved from his spot.
Selolwane seemed to be full of confidence and was always caught outside his area and nearly gave Swazis an early lead. Saviola’s shot hit a side netting.
Mthembu broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute after breaking away from Botswana’s defence. Swaziland continued piling pressure on the Young Zebras but missed several chances in front of goal.
Early in the second half, Botswana tried to come back into the match.
Thato Kebue of Mochudi Center Chiefs and Mothusi Cooper of Extension Gunners showed their match fitness with Cooper looking dangerous in attack while Kebue was solid at the back. Swaziland were given a corner and Matshe was assigned to take it. Selolwane made a howler in trying to save Matshe’s effort and Swaziland took a 2-0 lead.
Botswana’s only scoring chance came in the 67th minute through Mpho Kgomo who found himself one-on-one with Swaziland goalkeeper, Dlamini Andile but he failed to beat him. Young Zebras missed Thato Mogorosi who was ferried to hospital after suffering a head injury.
He was replaced by Tshepho Malgas. Botswana’s next match is against Lesotho on Saturday afternoon. The championship is sponsored by PPC Cement.