07 Apr 2014

Ronald Chikomo’s solitary goal in the second half of a beMOBILE Premier League encounter between Gaborone United and Tafic was enough to smoothen the road towards the lower league next season for the once giants of the north.

At a game played at the Francistown Stadium on April 5, Tafic were forced to start preparing for a journey to the first division next season as they lost their third consecutive and crucial game.

Despite being under enormous pressure to redeem themselves and avoid the relegation axe, Machimenyenga played as a team and managed to hold their opponents for most of the first half ensuring that they did not commit any careless mistakes in their own territory.

One one hand The Money Machine came into the game full force with Edwin Olerile and Obonwe Maome making endless attempts at the Tafic goals in the first half.

However, their efforts were thwarted by goalkeeper Abednico Morapedi who remained the pillar of strength for Tafic even when his defence let him down.

GU shared equal ball possession with their hosts as they had difficulties in penetrating the on form defence of Kabo Ogolotse and Phinius Kgotlang who did well to contain the duo of Olerile and Maome.

Unlike in the past few games where Tafic’s towering striker, Mathews Nyamadzawo carried the hopes of the team even in defeat scoring consolation goals, his presence was not felt as Gobonyeone Selefa made it difficult for him to hold on to the ball and make any goal bound attempts.

It was only in the last few minutes of the second half that the Zimbabwean international tried through a header to level matters with one of his two attempts but missed the net by an inch to the disappointment of Tafic supporters who had hoped their team would contain The Reds.

Despite being beaten by Chikomo’s only goal on the 65th minute, Tafic keeper Morapedi srose to the challenge making crucial saves to protect his side from an embarrassing loss.

When people expected a second GU goal from Kgololo Kgogobi, the pint size goalkeeper shocked Moyagoleele supporters as he saved a dangerous volley in the 88th minute.

The Francistown club remains perched at the bottom of the log with 21 points; they have another tricky encounter with league title contenders, Township Rollers next weekend away from home. ends