03 Aug 2015

Extension Gunners' pint sized winger, Tshegofatsho Chimuku’s goal secured his side’s the 3rd edition Regent Matebejana Tournament beating Mochudi Center Chiefs two goals to one.

Chimuku displayed a sterling performance for Gunners in the final match against Center chiefs, scoring the second important goal to win the title. Gunners win ensured that they defended the title they won last year against South Africa’s Jomo Cosmos.

The one day tournament hosted by BDF X1 junior side, Matebejana was sponsored by Regent Insurance. The tournament saw four teams battling it out with BDF X1 facing Mochudi Centre Chiefs followed by Gunners against hosts Matebejana.

In the first game, Gunners had a tough assignment against Matebejane, who comprise of young players. The young boys matched the more experienced Gunners players who had the likes of Boikhutso Zikhale and Monageng Thaele.

In the second half, Gunners coach Pio Paul introduced Pako Modikwa to put more pressure upfront. He delivered shortly thereafter by converting a cross to make it 1-0 against Matebejana.

In the first game, Chiefs had an easy game against BDF X1, winning 2-0 through Ayanda Molefhe and Kabo Kgaswane.

In the final, Chiefs and Gunners, who failed to win the Barclays Kabelano Charity Cup last week, faced each other.

In the first half, both teams shied away from going all out for victory, as they were too cautious. However, Chiefs controlled the midfield through the reigning premier league footballer of the year, Lesego Galenamotlhale who created chances for strikers who failed to utilise them,

Just before recess, the Gunners coach introduced Boitshoko Zikhale, who made an immediate impact and changed the complextion of the game.

 The teams went for recess with a goalless score. After the break, Gunners came back searching for an early goal using their left wing through the speedy Chimuku who proved to be a force to reckon with as he troubled Jabu Pilane.

Pilane found himself chasing the former Letlapeng winger’s shadows. His attacks and combination with Zikhale and Mogomotsi Mokoka were a marvel to watch. In one of their attacks, Mokoka was brought down in the box and the referee pointed to the  penalty spot.

  Odirile “Deco” Kgaodi made no mistake sending Chiefs goalkeeper the wrong way. Chikumu, who toyed with Chiefs defenders at will, was renamed “Chibuku” by the appreciative Gunners supporters.

  Chiefs also launched impressive attacks and in one of their forays, Katlego Mothibi brought down a Chiefs player in the penalty area. Charles Mutaro converted the penalty to level up matters. 

Centre Chiefs found their footing after the goal to regain dominance with Thatayaone Ramatlapeng and Tendai Nyamusi causing headaches to Gunners defenders. However, Desire Bafana and his fellow defenders stood firm and repelled the Chiefs onslaught. 

In the 75^th minute, Mokoka laid a pass to Chimuku who was sandwiched by two defenders, but still managed a low shot into the back of the net much to the delight of the fans.

Meanwhile, BDF X1 beat Matebejana 2-0 to secure third place. ENDS