21 Feb 2018

The Tsabong outfit Black Rangers who are just a few points shy from the relegation zone gave Notwane a torrid time in their encounter on February 17  during their first division encounter which was played in the dusty grounds of Tsabong.

Notwane who came into this clash looking to consolidate their top spot were the shadow of themselves as they never played like a team which is leading the pack in the south, save for some individual brilliance from Tlhalefo Molebatsi.

Molebatsi who was a thorn on Ranger’s rear guard equalised in the 85^th minute to save his team from embarrassment of losing to a team which has been blowing hot and cold throughout the season.

He eliminated two players on the left flank before pulling a sucker punch which left the Rangers goal minder helpless in the middle of the posts.

The game which was played under extreme temperatures saw the local lads break the ice in the 40^th minute through a Godwin Rietz long range shot.

He took advantage of the Notwane defence who were caught flat after Rangers cleared the ball from deep inside their half and he made sure that he converted with ease. Both teams had scoring chances though they were far and apart but it was Rangers who had an upper hand, but they were let down by lack of smooth transition especially after they lose the ball in the opponent’s half.

The Rangers coach Duncan Tshegofatso who is still optimistic that they will avoid the relegation axe expressed concern that his boys are very slow when it is time to get behind the ball.

He pointed out that they still take rushed decisions when they are in the box despite the fact that he always tells them to take their time. He lamented that they could be in a safe position if his boys could have converted the numerous chances they always created, adding that he is however still optimistic that they will soon get their act together.

For his part Kakale Mabechu who was standing in for Pio Paul of Notwane conceded that his boys were not up to the task and blamed fatigue for their poor performance.

He however said come rain or sunshine they are going to the BTC premiership next season. Ends