Maweja Takers collected only three points in their two MMK Administrators League matches that were played over the past weekend. They narrowly beat Univen FC 2-1 at the Tshakhuma Mulangaphuma ground on Saturday and then lost to their neighbors, Tshakhuma Na Ndilani FC, by the same margin at the same venue the following day.
Their game against Univen was a thriller. Univen were out of touch in the first 20 minutes of the game. It was not surprising when the home side opened their account nine minutes into the game. They were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty box after Zwivhuya Tshisaphungo was brought down. Takalani Mashila beat the keeper with a half volley.
Although they were controlling the game, Maweja Takers were the first to effect change to their starting line-up. They introduced Takalani Ramagalela at the expense of Khuthadzo Munyai. Ramagalela formed a deadly combination with his captain, Khuliso Netshaulu, in the middle of the park.
The home side increased the margin in the 24th minute. Their centre forward, Ifi Muthubi, scored with a ground cutter, from arguably an offside position. That was a wakeup call to the students from the University of Venda. They showed a great deal of cohesion in the last 15 minutes of the last half. They continued to dictate the terms in the last half. Aluwani Mbedzi of Maweja was booked for dangerous play in the 59th minute.
A scramble within the Takers' danger area gave birth to Univen's solitary goal. In the 64th minute, Xinovona Chauke hooked in the ball. Univen replaced Livhuwani Netshivhodza with Matimba Kubayi five minutes later.
The students were reduced to 10 men in the 74th minute. Mulisa Netshitonngwe was given his marching orders for using abusive words towards the referee, Mr Rabelani Nemushungwa. Maweja played defensive football for the remaining part of the game.