10 Feb 2014

BDF XI advanced to the Mascom Top 8 final at the expense of Nico United despite losing their encounter by a solitary goal.

Elijah Chikwanda and his boys did themselves a favour when they thrashed Nico 5-2 a fortnight ago and this meant that Nico had to play a catch up game and this was never to be as their one nil win meant that they were booted out of the competition by an aggregate of 5-3.

The encounter started off to a slow start and as expected, it was Nico who showed some sense of urgency, but they could not penetrate the solid defence of their opponents manned by the highly experienced Mompati Thuma.

The first half went to recess goalless and there seemed like there would be no goals as BDF XI made things difficult for their opponents to play as they were behind the ball most of the time and showed little determination to go forward.

In the second half, Nico pressed forward and their efforts were rewarded midway through the half when their marksman, Topo Piet was fouled just outside the area and Khumoetsile Kufigwa converted through a resultant set piece.

The Selebi Phikwe side tried all they could do but their opponents stood their ground and the game, which was characterised by too many stoppages due to some ugly tackles from both sides, ended with a goal to nil.

In an interview after the game, Chikwanda said his boys played according to plan, pointing out that even though they lost the game, the result had no meaning as they qualified for the final.

He said they were ready to meet any team in the final and that they will be eagerly waiting for either Gaborone United or Township Rollers. Meanwhile the loosing coach, Kenneth Mogae said their plan was to be offensive but unfortunately there was no transition from the back to the front.

He applauded his defence and midfield but decried the fact that their plan of attacking from the wings did not bare any fruit. ENDS