Mochudi Centre Chiefs proceeded to the semi-finals of the Mascom Top 8 after they beat stubborn Gilport Lions 1-0 in a hard fought quarterfinal second leg match played at Molepolole Sports Complex on Monday night. The result means Chiefs won 3-2 on aggregate as the first leg ended in a 2-2 stalemate three weeks ago in Serowe.
The decisive goal was scored by substitute Lemponye Tshireletso with a well taken freekick in the 81st minute. The goal spurred Chiefs supporters as they erupted into song and dance.
On Monday night, Lions coach Paradzayi Mandivenga made one change from their starting line-up in the first leg introducing Larona Maotwe for Kenamile Mani. Chiefs started the game on a good note and tried to get an early goal but they were let down by poor finishing. Onalethata Tshekiso forced a good save from goalkeeper Lesego Bosekeng in the 20th minute. Few minutes later, Bosekeng was forced to make another brilliant save when he parried Pontsho Moloi’s shot away for corner. But Chiefs failed to utilise the resultant corner.
When Lions got a chance to punish Chiefs in the 30th minute, Chrispen Mbewe shot over the bar with goalkeeper Mompoloki Sephekolo off the goal line. On the stroke of halftime, Lions defender Sekgabo Molebatsi shot wide of goal with Sephekolo to beat.
After Tshireletso scored a goal, Lions tried to chase the game but they could not break the resolute Chiefs defence. In the end it was a decisive win for Magosi who join 2012 champions Township Rollers, 2013 champions BDF XI and tournament newcomers Orapa United in the semi-finals.
Teams line-up:
Chiefs: Mompoloki Sephekolo, Othusitse Pilane, Ontse Ntesa, Keabetswe Jenamiso, Lesego Galenamotlhale, Lesego Molemogi, Pontsho Moloi, Senatla Molefe, Dirang Moloi, Tendai Nyumasi, Onalethata Tshekiso.
Lions: Lesego Bosekeng, Sekgabo Molebatsi, Bonang Monyatsi,Kabo Molome, Ozious Zibande, Tumisang Sekanonyana, Kabelano Mooketsane, Larona Maotwe, Lebogang Ditsele, Chrispen Mbewe, Matthews Nyamadzawo.
