Many Extension Gunners players were asking themselves whether Friday was, once again, going to be a bad day for their team against their hoodoo club Notwane.
Notwane led for the most part of the game and were launching attacks time and again. Unfortunately, they could not increase their lead. Gunners eventually got what they were yearning for as Ofentse ‘Schalkwyk’ Mmipi rescued the ‘Peleng’ boys when least expected. Mmipi made a well calculated move on the right hand side following a perfect and neatly placed cross. He put it through advancing Notwane goalkeeper, Mompoloi Sephekolo, who had a good game. The equaliser came eleven minutes from time.
In the first round, Notwane had an easy game beating Peleng Boys by three goals to two. Notwane were once again looking to carry on from where they left in the first round. It nearly happened had they restored Barnes Radipotsane’s goal which he scored midway through the first half.
He pounced on a loose ball after Gunners defence failed to quickly react to clear the ball. Gunners were the better team in the field of play but did not create many chances. Notwane, on the other hand, had themselves to blame because they could have easily wrapped up the game had they utillised most of the opportunities that came their way. The main culprit was former Zebras talisman, Tshephiso ‘Sox’ Molwantwa. Molwantwa had Gunners defence on their toes throughout the game but fluffed several opportunities. On the other hand, Gunners’ youthful and enterprising left winger, Kgololo Leteane, once again had a good game. The youngster seems to grow with very game Gunners play. Many people even say he should be groomed for Nelson ‘Viola’ Gabolwelwe’s position.
The eighteen-year old played like a seasoned player and made many telling crosses. Although he still has to improve on his aerial strength, Notwane defenders, such as Agisanyang ‘Barcos’ Mosimanegape and Mpoeleng ‘Stopper’ Mpoeleng, found his good height and physique difficult to deal with.
Gunners’ other main undoing was their inability to effectively support their solo proven striker, Tiroyamodimo ‘TRX’ Mohambi. Mohambi was a threat to Notwane, but was under strict surveillance. In most cases, when he was in possession of the ball, Gunners midfielders reacted slowly to help him.
The other player who also played his heart out for Gunners was Mogorosi ‘Ross’ Magetse. The former Naughty Boys man commanded his position well and supplied many crosses. Notwane should, however, be credited for giving most of their youngsters a run. Several of them, like Kutlo Sejeso, look to have a bright future. Gunners now have 14 points while Notwane have 22.
The results did not really pull Gunners away from the relegation zone.
