In their opening match for the Limpopo Women's Soccer Tournament at the Makwarela Stadium on Saturday, Chippas Ladies beat Shayandima Morning Stars 3-1 to secure a place in the final.
The game was equally contested throughout the first half, but Morning Stars lost their original fighting spirit with time. Although Stars lost cohesion in the middle of the park at some stage, their overlapping centre back, Pinana Unezwa, remained a live wire.
Chippas squandered two clear chances in the 14th and 24th minute respectively. Tsepo Maluleke received a neat pass from Gudani Nephalama and hesitated for far too long to unleash within the box until she lost possession. As if that was not enough to upset the fans, Nthabiseng Matswi's volley went a little wide in the 24th minute.
Chippas finally took the lead in the 34th minute. Tshepiso Mamoropeli beat the offside trap and sent Stars' keeper, Mulalo Mudau, the wrong way to bring the half-time score to 1-0.
Olga Netshidzivhani of Morning Stars was booked for a late tackle on Gudani Nephalama three minutes into the last half. That did not deter Morning Stars from fighting as they continued to fight collectively in their search for the equalizer. Musiiwa Ramaremisa scored the Stars' equalizer, following a heartbreaking scramble within the box. Chippas were awarded a free kick just outside the box in the 68th minute. Lotaya Nndwa beat the keeper with a volley from the place kick.
Chippas were forced to effect a change to their starting line-up after Tshepiso Mamoropeli sustained a knee injury. Chippas increased the margin via Tshepo Maluleke. She unleashed from outside the box.
Mkateko Sithole of Chippas was given her marching orders for a dangerous tackle on Lindelani Ndou late in the game.