05 Oct 2015

 Mochudi Centre Chiefs and Orapa United played to a goalless draw in their beMOBILE Premiership clash in Orapa on October 2.

The game, which attracted an impressive turnout, started on a low-note as both teams failed to attack and the ball was played mostly in the middle.

The home side came within inches of taking the lead in the early stages of the game when Thabang Sesinyi fired a left-footed strike at goal, but his effort went over the bar.

Centre Chiefs, through their playmaker Lesego Galenamotlhale, attempted in vain to penetrate the resolute United defence. Galenamotlhale’s attempt stimulated his team into play as they pressed on their hosts.

Lemponye Tshireletso tried to convert a free kick but was too wide. The visitors had several opportunities though they failed to convert into goals.

It was evident that Magosi’s duo  of Tendai Nyumashi and Tshireletso were thirsty for goals as they worked endlessly towards their scoring side, but their efforts were not fruitful due to poor finishing.

The team’s striking wing was too much for United’s defence who were poor to the point that they conceded silly free kicks, resulting in Bonolo Fraiser earning a yellow card for questioning referee’s decision.

The home team almost opened the score sheet in the remaining 10 minutes when Sesinyi’s header from a free-kick parried by Raphael Nthwane, unfortunately Patrick Lenyeletse could not help with the finishing as he was heavily marked.

Magosi’s Kaelo Kgaswane got himself in referee’s book after going out of the field without referee’s consent.

Minutes prior to recess, it was evident that the Ostriches had an upper hand over Magosi and almost took a lead through Patrick Motsepe who fired a right-footed strike at goalpost but Nthwane made a save.

The second half saw the two teams tugging at each with no spoils. Chiefs were now struggling with the Ostriches pace, who were enjoying ball possession.

Moloi brothers’ Pontsho and Dirang’s efforts almost paid off as Pontsho launched a counter attack on the right-wing and cut inside the box before unleashing a low shot straight to Robert and Dirang failed to utilise the rebound as his shot went wide.

Both sides gave their all to earn three points but to no avail until the referee marked the end.  In an interview, Orapa United coach Madinda Ndlovu said it was more of technical game, emotions and they continued with their unbeaten home run.

Magosi’s coach, Mike Sithole expressed disappointment over his side’s performance “I am not happy because we created a lot of chances but failed to score, a point is better given that we are playing away from home,” he said. ends