After suffering a shocking 2-0 loss to struggling Mogoditshane Fighters a few weeks ago in the be-Mobile Premier League encounter, Ecco City Green seem to have found their footing.
On Friday, they defeated a spirited Notwane by two goals without reply at Molepolole Sports complex to improve their league standing.
The victory means they were level on points with Nico United before weekend matches. Ecco City is also breathing heavily on the necks of high riding sides such as BMC and Township Rollers. If they can be consistent to the very end, even the championships can be within reach.
The loss by Notwane, on the other hand, means that they are not really out of danger and might find themselves fighting for survival if they do not pull up their socks.
Despite losing the encounter, Notwane played brilliantly but they lacked that last killer punch to score. Ecco City defence was vulnerable under heavy attack.
Former Zebras top marksman, Tshephiso Molwanta, on the other hand played very well and kept Ecco City Green defence, manned by among others, Emmanuel Nlu, under pressure.
Molwantwa’s experience was evident every time he touched the ball but there was no one to complement his hard work. At times, he was forced to drop back to collect balls himself to launch attacks.
Ecco City old horse, Malepa Bolelang, was at his best and scored both goals. He scored the first one in the 18th minute after being left unmarked and easily slotted it in leaving goalkeeper, Barolong Lemmenyane, sprawling on the turf.
Bolelang completed his brace from a header twenty minutes before full time after a corner kick. To many people’s surprise, Notwane coach, Mike Sithole, started influential midfielder, Kenamile Mani, and upcoming striker, Lemogang Maswena, on the bench. By the time he introduced them, they made little impact as Ecco City were already having a field day, dictating terms.
Ecco City striker, Mandlekosi Sibanda was also giving Notwane a torrid time with his runs and passes. That aided Bolelang a lot. Despite losing, credit should go to Notwane youthful defender, Agisanyang Ramaabya, who was a marvel to watch at the back. Despite being under a torrent of attacks for the most part of the match, he made sure that the score line is not wide.
