Joe Maweja FC will not take part in the next stage of the prestigious Nedbank KO competition. This follows their 1-4 defeat at the hands of Mikhado FC at the Rabali Stadium on Saturday.
Maweja approached the game aggressively, with their midfielders pressing hard in search of early goals. Their effort did not pass without reward. They were the first to find the net. Their solitary goal came in the seventh minute. Unarine Ralukake beat the keeper with a half volley.
The goal seemed to be an insult to Mikhado. They fought back and 10 minutes later, the keeper of Maweja, Lesiba Thaba, mishandled the ball and Alushavhiwi Marubini gave the ball the final touch.
The goal marked the turning point of the game as Mikhado started to dictate terms in all departments. Ndivhuwo Havhi of Mikhado was brought down within the box and the referee, Mr Vutomi Bilankulu, was quick to point to the white spot. Akani Maluleke beat the keeper with a ground cutter from the penalty spot.
Maweja tried their luck by introducing Talifhani Mphaphuli for Xivoniso Chauke towards the end of the first half. Akani Malulele of Mikhado was warned with a card for obstructing Madilonga Mukwevho three minutes into the last half. Mikhado introduced Lucky Masutha for Teddy Denga as one of their many ways to neutralize their opponents.
Mikhado increased the margin in the 69th minute. Akani Maluleke blasted in a rocket, following a square pass from Ndivhuwo Havhi. The struggle continued, with Mikhado forcing Maweja to play with their backs against the wall. Mikhado scored their fourth goal later in the game. Lucky Masutha hooked in the ball, following a square pass from Ndivhuwo Havhi.