Notwane Edge Closer To Promotion
Boitumelo Khutsafalo | Monday March 12, 2018 17:48
The top of the table clash attracted a record crowd this season in the lower division with a lot at stake for both sides.
Before the match, Notwane were sitting at the top of the log but only a point separated the two sides.
Prisons XI were eyeing a victory to displace Notwane at the top while Notwane knew that a victory for them would extend the lead at the summit.
It was the hosts, Prisons XI who took the lead in the 30th minute through former Extension Gunners winger, Kelello Kgosimore. However, Notwane responded through their defender Ronald Selemane in the last minute of the first half with the two sides going into recess tied at 1-1.
In the second half both sides threw missiles at each other, but it was Notwane who hit their target in the 67th minute when Prisons XI conceded a penalty.
Notwane goalkeeper, Michael Pepukani stepped up and coolly converted to give Notwane the lead. Prisons XI increased numbers going forward in search of an equaliser but were punished yet again with five minutes remaining when Notwane captain, Amos Godirwang powered a header past The Warders’ goalkeeper, Ontiretse Gaothobogwe. The goal put the game far beyond Prisons XI’s reach and wrapped up an important victory for Notwane.
With three matches remaining for each side, Notwane now sit on the edge of a Premier League return. They have now opened a four-point gap between them and second -placed Prisons XI.
Speaking to journalists after the match, Notwane coach, Kakale Mabechu said as far as he is concerned, they are back in the elite league. “We are back in the Premier League.
This game played out the way we had planned and Prisons XI fell right into our trap. To get promoted, we have to beat other contenders. In my view, the job has been done and we have gained our promotion,” he said.
Prisons XI coach, Philemon Makhwengwe said his charges did not take their chances in the first half and got punished in the second half. He however said there is still a chance to gain promotion despite the setback. “We have not won until we win it and we have not lost it until we lose it,” he said.
The teams:
Prisons XI: Gaothobogwe, Condry Masire, Tumo Lebanna, Benny Bogatsu, Kebatshabile Monthe, Moemedi Sendu (Mpho Monyena), Oteng Kenaope, Nkobi Kehetile, Mokuye Shakambayo, Kitso Mpuisang, Kgosimore
Notwane: Pepukani, Mpoeleng Mpoeleng, Selemane, Brian Botsang, Boitumelo Modisaotsile, Ookeditse Kgosietsile (Raymond Israel), Thabiso Boti, Tlhalefo Molebatsi, Godirwang, Sthembile Mbuqe, Ishmael Amponsah
Caution: Kgosietsile