Galaxy Stretch Lead After Sankoyo Win
Boniface Keakabetse | Monday February 20, 2017 15:21
With second-placed Township Rollers on CAF club assignment, Galaxy took full advantage to move to 35 points, but Rollers have two games in hand.
Galaxy got their lead in the fourth minute from the penalty spot when Isaac Paeye stepped up and converted after Sankoyo centre defender, Moabi Sebele handled in the box attempting to defend a cross. Sankoyo dominated the midfield with Galaxy relying mostly on their wings to attack. Ngurungu as the Maun side is affectionately known, tried to respond in the 11th minute via fast-paced Botshelo Mafoko who raced forward but hit the side net. The bulk of first half was a scrappy affair and went to recess with Galaxy leading 1-0.
The second goal came in the 68th minute through another blunder from Sebele. Ngurungu defender, Modiredi Matengu played a pass to Sebele who tried to drive the ball outside his box, but casually lost possession. Morris Ruzivo connected with Olebogeng Malebye whose cross was buried by Tebogo Sembowa. The goal rejuvenated Galaxy who began to create a number of chances but failed to extend the lead. At the end, the win left Galaxy coach Mike Sithole a happy man. Sithole said he was happy with the win as it cements their position at the summit.
“Sankoyo was quick and organised in the midfield than us so we opted to play the second ball through our wings and it worked for us,” Sithole said. He revealed that he had to rest Thero Setsile who has been banging goals, for the Mascom Top 8 return leg clash against BDF XI. Sithole said it is too early for them to think of winning the league.
“We are still underdogs. In football even underdogs can top the league. We are just enjoying every game as it comes,” he said.
Sankoyo coach, Dragojlo Stanojlovic said despite the loss, his team had a good game attributing the two goals to mistakes of his defence. He said they would return to the drawing board ahead of their game against Black Forest at the Molepolole Sports Complex on Saturday.
Teams:
Galaxy: Anthony Gouws, Tebogo Sosome, Thabo Leinanyane, Issac Paeye, Moreetsi Mosimanyana, Boitumelo Mafoko, Olebogeng Malebye, Peter Olangi, Thabang Sesinyi (Gilbert Baruti), Morris Ruzivo, Tebogo Sembowa (Christopher Musonda)
Sankoyo: Kabelo Kuti, Bobby Ntshegisang, Onkarabile Ratanang, Moabi Sebele (Tapiwa Sepatela) Moagi Sechele, Modiredi Matengu, Walter Sande, Wabuya Aebe, Onkagetse Mojwaine, Oabile Bathusi, Botshelo Mafoko (Ononofile Setsiba)
Sankoyo 0
Galaxy 2 (Paeye fourth (pen) Sembowa 68th)