29 May 2017

Sankoyo Bush Bucks came all out Saturday afternoon (May 27) to share spoils with the visiting Police XI to improve their log standing in the premier league as they wrap up the season.

Ngurungu and Police XI failed to register a goal in an important game and both collected a point which proved their survival in the premier league. Both teams were amongst the relegation zone.

Ngurungu ended the season in position 11 with 33 points while Police XI survived by a whisker thanks to the goal difference with Nico United which also had 32 points.

However, the well attended match started on a low note as both teams seemed relaxed and not showing any intentions of mounting attacks.

Sankoyo supporters came in large numbers with the hope that their team would end the season in grand style, but it appeared their rivals too came to the game with a mission to collect three points and improve their log standing.

The scenario prevailed until the last whistle of the first half as both teams failed to register a goal.

After recess, Police XI controlled the game but their advances on the Ngurungu boys goal post did not yield any results as the goalkeeper saved all shots directed at him.

Players such as Hedrick Moyo and Betsho Pius were frequently caught offside as they tried to make inroads into Ngurungu territory.

On the other hand, Ngurungu started finding their way into the game connecting several passes although they could not create clear scoring chances.

They made several substitutions which did not change the tone of the match, but brought life to their supporters who kept on singing and cheering with a hope that they would score. The two sides ended the game tied at nil all.

In an interview, both team head coaches did not hide their happiness for surviving relegation, as they all stated that the game was important and tough hence they managed to share points.

Police XI coach, Isaiah Magwadi said the game was more like a cup final, adding that they needed a draw to ensure their stay in the league.

“Everything went according to plan as we looked up for a draw to survive,” he added.

He said their plan was to play total football whereby every player saw the ball in front and commended his boys for sticking to the game plan.

Magwadi also said their aim was to be amongst the top eight, but that it was unfortunate as they lost some games which they were not supposed to lose.

He said going forward, there was need to beef up the squad, especially in the central middle field, strike and a goalkeeper departments.

For his part, coach Drago Stanlojovic said the game was important for both teams.

He said their opponents were very defensive while his boys were attacking and noted that “a draw was a better result for both of us.”

He believes that their stay in the league would also impress the Ngamiland community who had been rallying behind the team through thick and thin.

He also praised his boys for displaying a good performance and maintaining their status in the elite premier league. ENDS