09 Feb 2015

 Mochudi Centre Chiefs are atop the be Mobile Premier League following their  two-all draw with Notwane  at Sir Seretse Khama Barracks on Saturday.

Chiefs had been longing to lead the league, but their main obstacle was Township Rollers, who sat comfortably on the top the entire first round.  However, on Saturday, Magosi played the game knowing that a win or draw would perch them at the top after Rollers lost two-nil to BDF XI in Serowe on Friday night.

Although Magosi needed a win, Notwane were a better side given that they created a lot of chances although they failed to convert them. However, on the ninth minute, Tendai Nyamusi unleashed a cracker from outside the box to give Centre Chiefs the lead.

Nevertheless, Notwane fought like wounded buffaloes and they managed to  put more pressure in the middle of the park which was shaky due to the absence of Lesego Galenamotlhale, and their hard work paid dividends on the 18th minute when Lemogang Maswena, netted an equaliser.

With Notwane enjoying ball possession, they penetrated Chiefs’ defence willy nilly, but luck was not on their side since they failed to convert,clear cut chances. On the 37th minute, Magosi were awarded a free kick, which was put to waste by their players who were also complacent inside the box.

Just some seconds before break, Notwane unleashed a counter attack, and Chiefs players failed dismally to deal with it, and Terry Mbuque released a good cross which was well received by Zebron Njobvu, who did not waste any time but silenced Magosi supporters making it 2-1.

Immediately after Notwane goal, the game went into a recess and after half time, Notwane came back beaming with confidence looking for a cushion goal, but lack of composure inside the box was their undoing.

On the 51st minute, Chiefs were awarded a free kick and it was well taken by their free kick specialist, Galabgwe Moyana; however Notwane keeper, Itumeleng Selapa who had a good game, denied him what could had been an equaliser.

Hardly 12 minutes before full time, Chiefs were awarded a penalty which was easily converted by Lemponye Tshireletso to end the game with two-all draw. Chiefs coach, Mike Sithole, said Notwane were a better side given that they played with a sense of urgency compared to his side.

He said his defence was shaky and the absence of Galenamotlahale in the middle of park was visible throughout the game. He however said he was aware that there was going to be a lot of pressure since they were now leading the log.

“In fact only a point separates us from Rollers and my boys are aware of that, but we will take and approach any game as it comes, our next encounter is against BR Highlanders, and you know in football anything can happen,” he said.

Notwane caretaker coach, Sheleng Mogorosi, said luck was not on their side because they drew a game they could have easily won. He however said he was happy with his side’s performance. “Remember I have only trained with them for two days and I must say they responded very well,” he said. ends