Emmanuel FC team that beat Mpheni Defenders 1-0.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Giyani-based Emmanuel FC made their fans proud last Saturday with a much-needed 1-0 victory over top-of-the-log side Mpheni Defenders at home in Malamulele stadium.
The Musa Nkhondo-coached side desperately needed to collect the maximum of three points to better their chances of winning the tough ABC Motsepe League stream A.
They were six points adrift of log leaders Mpheni coming into the game. They started the game very slowly in the early minutes doing most of the defensive duties rather than attacking while their visitors were going all out to score an early goal. However, they bounced back 15 min into the game with a well-worked counter play but their midfielders lacked urgency when releasing the final pass. Their opponents Mpheni who were playing in their traditional 4/3/3 formation were pushing their fullbacks far up forward when in attack leaving gaps on the flanks but they failed to capitalize. Both teams had their scoring opportunities but poor finishing let them down. The home side Emmanuel finally got their breakthrough will a brilliant second-half goal via the boot of Mpimo Maswnganyi who scored from a rebound after the Mpheni goal minder parried the ball. The goal brought more confidence and motivation to the home side who became more offensive to the delight of their many supporters. They created more chances but their shots at goal went awry.
Mpheni also tried their best to find the equalizer towards the final whistle but it was too little too late. When the referee blew the final whistle the crowd erupted in celebrations as if they won the league. Emmanuel coach Musa Nkhondo said his side wanted maximum points more than his opponents.
“We wanted it more and I think tactically they came here for a point,” he said. Nkhondio also said people have not seen the best of his team yet. Mpheni coach Sydney Phuravhathu said his team lost the game because of a lapse in concentration at the back.