Makhitha Oscar Stars strengthened their position in the Safa Vhembe MMK Administrators league when they beat Makhitha Yellow Birds 1-0 in a local derby at the Makhitha grounds on Sunday.
The game was a balanced affair, but Stars created more scoring opportunities. Birds started to demonstrate their rough skills in the first half, but the referee calmed the situation by reprimanding Shumani Nthulane with a yellow card.
The keeper of Stars, Thanyani Netshipale, made his presence felt in the 34th minute. Birds were awarded a free kick just outside the box. Ashin Monyeleote unleashed from the set piece and Netshipale impressed even the opponents when he braved the hot shot and executed a brilliant save.
A defender of Stars, Nthabiseng Makgopo, was lucky to get away with a yellow card. He handled the ball intentionally, but the referee only flashed a yellow card when everyone thought Makgopo would be taking an early shower.
Birds enjoyed ball possession throughout the last half, but they were unfortunate because their promising moves were turned into a nightmare, due to the rock-solid defence of Stars. Birds also came close to scoring when Moses Mabeba dribbled past three defenders in a row and shot wide from close range.
Tshedza Mutandari scored the only goal of the day. He received a neat pass from Mathibela Ledwaba and unleashed a powerful aerial ball that beat the keeper.