19 Aug 2018

Notwane have made perfect return to the BTC Premiership in a 2-1 hard fought victory against Security Systems at Molepolole Sports Complex on August 18.

Goals from Michael Pepukani (penalty) and Lesego Lubinda ensured maximum points for Notwane.

Notwane defied the odds as they became the only newly promoted side to earn a victory on the first day of the match as BR Highlanders and Prisons XI were given quick reminders of the tough task they faced on their return to the top flight.

 Notwane head coach, Keitumetse Paul shared his relief over the win explaining that the victory would set the tune right for Notwane in the other games to come.

“The win gave us the confidence to have the belief and it stabilises our plans. Imagine had we lost this game it will have brought a lot of unnecessary pressure to this players,” said Paul.

Both teams went into the fixture with several signings making their debuts among them Eric Molefi who Systems snatched from Uniao Flamengo Santos under Jwaneng Galaxy’s nose and the duo of Thatayaone Ramatlapeng and Pako Gaofose who were previously in the books of Mochudi Centre Chiefs and Sankoyo Bush Bucks.

Notwane had fielded a very much experienced team with Amos Godirwang and debutant Richard Legwaila deployed in the midfield while club stalwart Mpoeleng Mpoleng marshaled the defence.

The encounter got off to a slow start as both sides were very cautious in defence but it was on the 17th minute that Systems made a penalty shout after a suspected handball by Katlego Koobake but the referee waived play on.

Three minutes later Notwane were given a penalty on the other end as Systems defender Osego Gaotewe was penalised for handball a call which made the Systems bench erupt in frustration.

Goalkeeper Michael Pepukani stepped up to the spot and sent Mosimanegape Roberts the wrong way to give Notwane the lead.

Systems made a quick response to restore parity through Eric Molefi who made a dazzling run past defenders to force a sumptuous near post shot that left Pepukani rooted to the spot.

With the trio of Ramatlapeng, Gaofose and Molefi posing all kinds of threat to the Notwane defence especially on the right hand side where ageing Mpoeleng was caught for pace a couple of times, Paul made an instant tactical substitution as he brought in Lesego  Lubinda for Godirwang and deployed Legwaila  just in front of the backline.    

Notwane almost took the lead again on the brink of half time after a fluid interchange between new marksman Modise Sifo and Lubinda whose shot at the edge of the box went past the upright by just a whisker.

After the recess Paul made his   second change of the game as he brought in fresh pair of legs in attack replacing Sifo with Thabiso Boti.

The second half however saw minimal action on both ends and it was on the 70th minute when Tlhalefo Molebatsi profited from Kaelo Kgaswane’s loose play in possession opening up for a counter attack as Lubinda capped off his return with a tap in finish after a telegraphed pass from Molebatsi giving Notwane the all-important victory.

 Systems assistant coach George Mogopodi said they have a lot of positives to pick from the defeat.

“We played well especially in the first half but I think we just wilted in the second half possibly because  our fitness level is not up to scratch” said Mogopodi. ENDS