Maweja and Madridtas in nail-biting 1-1 draw

The much-talked-about Vhembe derby between Joe Maweja and Madridtas FC, which was played at the Tshifudi Stadium on Saturday, ended in a 1-1 draw.

Although none of their regular players was in the team’s starting line-up, Maweja managed to match the home side pound for pound in all departments. Madridtas’ midfielder, Vuwani Masakona, was the first player to go into the referee’s book. He tackled Sheriff Mudalahothe from behind in the 11^th minute and the referee, Mr Avhasei Simba, was lenient enough not to let him see red.

Although the defence of Madridtas was shaky, Maweja failed to capitalize. Madridtas threatened to score in the 24^th minute, but their bulldozer striker, Rofhiwa “Danger” Netshiungani, shot aimlessly from close range. This after he had received a neat pass from Solomon Noko and beaten two defenders in a row.

Madridtas were the first to open their account. Their diminutive midfielder, Gift Nemutandani, forced his way through the defence of Maweja and beat the keeper with a volley to bring the half-time score to 1-0.

Maweja replaced Sheriff Mudalahothe with Khumbudzo Muvhango early in the last half. Maduvha Mudologi of Madridtas was booked for dangerous play in the 57^th minute. Madridtas introduced Maanda Munyai at the expense of Vuwani Masakona in a bid to solidify their midfield. Munyai caused an upset five minutes after his introduction. Instead of trying his luck from the edge of the box, Munyai chose to share his fortune with Rofhiwa Netshiungani. The move was intercepted.

A defender of Madridtas, Lutendo Mulaudzi, handled the ball within the box and the referee awarded a penalty to Maweja. Khumbudzo Muvhango converted from the white spot. Maweja were awarded another penalty after Lutendo Mulaudzi handled within the box again. Mashudu Mukhari shot straight to the keeper, who easily saved the shot.

Rofhiwa Netshiungani of Madridtas was cautioned with a card for protesting against the referee’s decision late in the game.

Date:24 February 2017

By: Frank Mavhungu

Frank is a Human Resources Manager at the Department of Public Works in Limpopo. He is the longest serving correspondent of the Mirror, having joined us at the end of 1990.  He mainly writes sports reports and resides at Tsianda Village. In 2004, Frank won the National Castle League Award, an award for the best reporter in the SAB league in South Africa.

Read: 521