The FNB Premiership thriller played at the Lobatse Sports Complex saw de Jongh kick start his Galaxy’s assignment with a win. The Dutch coach was appointed this week and replaces South African, Morena Ramoreboli, who is expected to take over the reigns at the senior national team, the Zebras. Under a new technical team, Galaxy took dominance of the tie from the first whistle but were occasionally let down by the final ball. After a series of half chances, the reigning Champions managed to break down the BDF XI defence as Thero Setsile tucked in to give Galaxy the lead in the 38th minute. The two teams headed to the recess with the visitors having a slim lead.
Five minutes into the second half, Galaxy were reduced to 10 men after goalkeeper, Victor James was sent off for deliberately handling the ball outside the penalty area. Forward, Thabang Sesinyi, was sacrificed as third choice keeper, Ryan Brown got rare minutes of competitive action. Galaxy’s Gilbert Baruti saw a free kick aimed at the near post well saved in the 61st minute. Three minutes later, at the other end, Godiraone Modingwane levelled the scores as his shot deflected into the net. In the 72nd minute, Brown brought down Oratile Taunyane inside the box and the referee awarded BDF a penalty. Norris Mwamba stepped up to give the soldiers the lead in the 74th minute. Galaxy showed great resilience as with 10 minutes to time, substitute Neo Mokhachane hit the side net on the break. Five minutes later, substitute Thabiso Bante squeezed a powerful low shot in to the near post to make it 2-2. The home side had a temporary relief in the last two minutes of regulation time.
