12 Oct 2015

Notwane thrashed First Division South newcomers, Black Rangers, 2-0 in Tsabong on Saturday October 13. The latest setback by the Tsabong side left their top flight status in doubt after a series of defeats.

The match saw the home side starting on a brighter note, compelling the visiting Notwane to commit set pieces on their half. In the 15th minute, Notwane were nearly punished for their sloppiness at the back.

Notwane center half, Tsimi Dieduonne fumbled the ball only for Rangers forward, Lebogang Khubamang to pounce in the 15th minute, kicking a weak shot which was cleared off the goal line by Notwane captain, Lewis Sekwainyane.

The home team continued with their impressive attacking play and in the 21st minute, Kenneth Itheetseng’s perfect cross from the right flank found the wasteful Khubamang in the box resulting in the striker sending the attempt wide.

Khubamang again was in the mix of things in the 30th minute after a perfect cross from fullback, Pako Teteme went straight to him, but his effort left much to be desired as his shot was safely handled by Notwane stopper, Itumeleng Selapa.

Towards the dying minute of the first stanza, Notwane nearly ran to the break with a lead. In the 44th minute, the Toronto boys were awarded a free kick which required a brilliant fingertip save from Rangers goalkeeper, Modiri Gabankalafe after a fine set piece from Notwane attacker, Mbuqe Sithembile.

The game went into recess with score reading 0-0.

In the second half, Notwane showed aggression and intensity going forward whereas the home side was content with counter attacking using long balls.

However, it was Notwane whose game plan paid dividends as the duo of Thato Mogorosi and Sithembile combined well in midfield. In the 58th minute, Sithembile found Mogorosi with a fine cross but the attacker sent the attempt wide off the mark.

Notwane introduced Motadi Tshepiso as substitute and changed the complexion of the game. A throw ball from midfield found Tshepiso in a good position in the 61st minute and converted to make the score line 1 nil.

As Notwane was gaining full control of the match, Tshepiso’s shot in the 65th minute was parried to safety by Gabankalafe.

The only attempt by Black Rangers in the second half was produced by substitute, Kaboyamodimo Mabunyane. His lobbed attempt from long range forced Selapa into action.

Notwane finished the contest by scoring their second goal in the 90th minute after their skillful winger Langa Mabuli set Thato Mogorosi with a perfect placed throw ball resulting in converting it to seal the score line to 2 nil.

During post match interview, Notwane coach, Kaelo Kaelo said the game was difficult in the first half as their transition and decision making was poor. He added that the heat and the wind also affected their play.

During the half time break, Kaelo noted that he urged his charges to improve their transition from defence to attack and their decision making. He said the boys applied his instructions accordingly.

As for the losing coach, Mr Onalenna Osenne, he said his team played well on the first half and were better than their opponents although his forwards failed to convert their chances.

He said although his team lost, the defence was well organised and stressed that he will take that improvement to the next game against Lesirane. Ends