Prisons XI Edge Closer To Premier League Return
Chakalisa Dube | Monday May 7, 2018 13:16
Flamingoes lost 2-1 in the first leg of the promotional play-offs match. Prisons now have two away goals, which gives them an upper hand in their quest to return to the BTC Premiership.
The second leg will be played in Gaborone on Saturday. The weekend defeat was the first for Flamingoes since January. The match highlighted the tactical prowess of the two highly respected coaches.
Dominic Changwe’s charges showed exceptional ability when going forward. They also enjoyed neat interchanges on the ball for most past of the match. On the other hand, Phillimon Makhwengwe’s charges were very resolute at the back. Every aspect of their defensive game was spot on.
Flamingoes could have found themselves in the lead eight minutes into play. Talisman Lovemore Murwira serenely turned his marker but his close range shot was neatly blocked by the visitor’s goalkeeper, Bakang Methole who had an eventful day.Just like in their last league match against Great North Tigers, Murwira was in an elementary mood but his only shortcoming was his inability to convert.
Former Jwaneng Galaxy forward Christopher Musonda who was playing his first match after a two-month injury lay-off missed another glorious chance to put Flamingoes ahead in the 19th minute.
Four minutes later, Flamingoes were punished for their lack of predatory instincts when Mokuye Shakambayo coolly controlled a long ball with his chest, navigated his way past defenders and sent an advancing Edwin Mokibe the wrong way.
A minute later, Flamingoes were caught napping again but this time around striker Kitso Mpuisang’s well taken header hit the upright with Mokibe well beaten. Prisons goalie Methole was called into action by Murwira in the 39th minute with strong shot. He did well to parry the ball back into play.
The match went to the break with the warders leading by a solitary goal. Flamingoes found the equaliser two minutes after break through Murwira. He slotted home from close range after a goalmouth melee.
The host’s celebrations were short-lived. Prisons found themselves ahead again seven minutes later when Kelello Kgosimore’s well taken free kick easily beat Mokibe on the lower right corner. In fact Mokibe can also be faulted for the goal as he did not properly organise his wall.
Flamingoes continued piling pressure on the visitors. After the second goal, Flamingoes had nine corners but they were effectively dealt with by Prisons’ ever alert defence.
In the 77th minute, left back Shanganani Ngada could have found the equaliser for the hosts but his well executed close range shot went inches over the bar. With five minutes to play, Murwira cleverly beat his marker but his shot which was destined for the goals was well effectively dealt with by Mothebe.
Changwe’s charges were nearly caught by a counter with virtually the last kick of the match but Mokibe came off his line to clear the danger.
The Teams:
Flamingoes: Mokibe, Donald Chiringa, Shanganani Ngada, Gaotewesepe Legoreng, Buzani Mangandayi (Thato Ganetsang), Kabo Rasuping (Letlang Moatlhodi) Manikin Mayunga, Alfred Motiki, Christopher Musonda (Lesego Moiphemedi), Monametsi Tsapoga, Murwira
Prisons: Bakang Methole, Condry Masire, Tumo Lebanna, John Ranko, Kebatshabile Monthe, Moemedi Sendu, Oteng Kenaope, Mpho Monyena (Taelo Nthomiwa), Mokuye Shakambayo (Ookeditse Oagile), Kitso Mpuisang, Kelello Kgosimore
Sua Flamengoes 1 (Murirwa 47th)
Prisons XI 2 (Shakambayo 24th, Kgosimore 54th)