Ipfi Muthubi was a marvel to watch when his team, Maweja Takers, crushed Shayandima Silver Stars 4-1 in their MMK Administrators League match at the Tshakhuma Mulangaphuma grounds on Saturday. Muthubi scored a hat trick in the game.
Silver Stars managed to match the home side pound for pound throughout the first half. Their original fighting spirit faded with time, however. Maweja Takers opened their account in the 18th minute. Muthubi went loose after a clearing error and beat the keeper with a ground cutter.
The visitors found the equalizer in the 28th minute. Emmanuel Ndwammbi headed home, following a free kick that was taken by Mpho Munyai.
Maweja Takers then took the game to their opponents soon afterwards. They took the lead four minutes before the half-time whistle. Muthubi was on target again, following a scramble within the box.
Takalani Mashila of Maweja Takers was the only player who was reprimanded with a card in the game. He tackled Dakalo Raphulu from behind six minutes into the last half.
Silver Stars used two of their substitution chances in the last half. The replacements were not good enough to stop Maweja Takers from scoring two more goals. Muthubi completed his hat-trick after forcing his way through the defence of Silver Stars in the 67th minute.
Maweja Takers came close to scoring again three minutes later. Their captain, Khuliso Netshaulu, received a neat pass from Takalani Ramagalela and shot wide from close range. Silver Stars lost hope after Maweja scored their fourth goal in the 79th minute. Mukhauli Ndou gave the ball a final touch after a scramble within the box.