After beating Polokwane United 4-1 two weeks ago, Joe Maweja continued to pave their way up the league ladder by beating another Polokwane-based side, Polokwane Academy, 3-1 at the Tshifulanani Stadium in their ABC Motsepe League match last Saturday.
The teams managed to display entertaining football, despite the fact that the pitch was slippery due to rain. Academy lost cohesion in the midfield as the game progressed. Maweja capitalized and opened their account in the 34th minute. Their centre forward, Nndwamato Ndou, unleashed a powerful volley from the 35-metre area. As if he was a spectator, the keeper of Academy, Thapelo Mare, watched helplessly as the ball hit the back of the net.
Pressure continued to mount on the defence of Academy. Their keeper was warned with a card for obstructing Nndwamato Ndou in the 40th minute. Maweja effected the first change to their starting lineup six minutes into the second half. They replaced Aluwani Mbedzi with Laymond Muleya.
Academy were reduced to 10 men two minutes later. Matlodi Kgetege was given his marching orders for a dangerous tackle.
Academy did not lose hope, despite the setback. They continued to fight collectively, until they found the equalizer in the 69th minute. Lethabo Rangata headed home, following scramble within the box.
The coach of Joe Maweja, Mr M Phadu, and his Academy counterpart, Mr J Mogowe, were given their marching orders in the 74th minute. The two exchanged abusive words in front of the assistant referee, who immediately alerted the referee.
Maweja reclaimed the lead when Khumbudzo Muvhango scored with a half volley in the 79th minute. Maweja introduced Morgan Makhuvha for Mulisa Ramusia later in the game. Their third goal came via Nndwamato Ndou three minutes before the final whistle.