08 Mar 2015

A last minute goal by Segolame Boy sparked some notable delight amongst Township Rollers supporters as their team registered a 2-1 victory over the stubborn Sankoyo Bush Bucks at Maun Sports Complex on March 7.

The goal, scored at referee’s optional time, came at a time when both teams and their supporters had given in to a possible draw hence disappointment on the Ngurungu side.

Popa Popa started the game on a high note in an attempt to assert authority over the be Mobile league rookies but were surprised at the resistance they got from their opponents. Ngurungu did not give in to the intimidating attacks but instead waged counter attacks that appeared to neutralise their seemingly overcharged opponents.

After the first 15 minutes from kickoff, the two teams provided a mouth-watering encounter that kept the capacity filled stadium on its toes. However, none of the teams were able to break deadlock and went into recess with a goalless draw.

The game took a different turn in the second half as the two teams appeared to have revitalised during the break. In the 55^th minute Rollers’ captain, Maano Ditshupo gave his team a lead which silenced Sankoyo fans but provoked the players.

Ngurungu then fought back and ultimately equalised through Omatla Kebatho’s brilliant goal in the 70^th minute. Following Sankoyo’s goal, the two teams seemed to be heading for a draw until a 93^rd game winning goal by Boy which resuscitated Rollers’ hopes to defend the league championship.

Rollers’ coach Madinda Ndlovu gave credit to Ngurungu noting that they did their homework well even though his boys beat them. He said his boys played a constructive game in the first half as they created more chances but failed to convert them.

Ndlovu said Sankoyo gave his players hard time in the second half but “we proved that we came here to get three points as my boys fought hard to overcome the pressure put by Sankoyo”. Sankoyo head coach, Philani Mabhena said the boys played well even though they wasted many chances during the entire game.

He said they could have won the game or at least secured a draw but lost due to a lapse in defence. The coach however expressed happiness that his boys have gained the exposure and experience in their encounters with big teams in the Premier League.

Mabhena also appreciated the turn up of supporters and assured them a better performance in their coming matches. ENDS