16 Feb 2026

Thamaga Shooting stars went into the match sitting sixth while Holy Ghost occupied third place, and both sides retained their standings following a tightly contested encounter.

Coming off a narrow 1–0 defeat to second-placed Dinare FC, Shooting Stars used the setback as motivation to respond strongly.

After 72 minutes of stalemate, substitute Tumelo Sentle introduced at halftime for Gaobatlwe Kabelo capitalised on a defensive lapse and fired past goalkeeper Lefika Ngwako to secure the decisive goal.

Shooting Stars coach Nelson Olebile admitted the match was physically demanding.

“It was not an open game. Both teams were tussling, playing long balls and trying to win the second ball.We had to adjust to deal with that.” He praised goalkeeper Lesego Bosekeng for making crucial saves and credited second-half tactical adjustments, including introducing taller strikers to trouble Holy Ghost’s cautioned defenders.

Holy Ghost coach Goitseone Mompati commended his team’s preparation despite the defeat.

“We created chances but failed to convert them. Unfortunately, they capitalised on their sole opportunity.”

He acknowledged that poor finishing continues to be his side’s main weakness, noting that missed chances have cost them in recent fixtures.

Elsewhere, league leaders Prison IX extended their advantage to 38 points with a 2–0 victory over Taung Young Strikers, while Dinare FC stayed in close pursuit on 35 points after thrashing Tlokweng United 4–0.

Jwaneng Young Stars edged Notwane SC 1–0 to remain fourth with 26 points.

In Gabane, Union Flamengo Santos beat Majweng SC 1–0, leaving Majweng in relegation danger, while Security Systems FC crushed Tsetseng United 3–0 to hold fifth place on 25 points.

With the league entering a decisive phase, both Shooting Stars and Holy Ghost remain firmly in contention, but the pressure is mounting as the season intensifies. ENDS