Boitumelo Rabale scored a late goal for the second time this season to give Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies maximum points in the Hollywoodbets Super League. The reigning Player of the Season was on hand to score the winning goal as Banyana Ba Style clinched a hard-fought 2-1 victory over First Touch Academy in Limpopo.
Coach Jerry ‘Kappa’ Tshabalala fielded a strong team, with Andile Dlamini starting in goal and Bambanani Mbane, Lerato Kgasago, Karabo Makhurubetshi, and Thato Letsoso anchoring the defense. Oratile Mokwena, Boitumelo Rabale, and Chuene Morifi started in midfield, while Lehlogonolo Mashigo, Andisiwe Mgcoyi and Lelona Daweti played upfront.
Coach Jerry’s troops dominated the opening period and were duly rewarded with a fine strike from Daweti, her second goal of the season. Despite continued pressure from Sundowns Ladies, they were unable to double their advantage before the break.
After the restart, Kappa made some changes to his line-up, bringing on Thalea Smidt and Melinda Kgadiete to replace Lerato Kgasago and Andisiwe Mgcoyi. However, with just five minutes left on the clock, the visitors managed to level the score.
With time running out, Rabale delivered the killer blow with a fine finish, handing the reigning champions all three points, a result which left Coach Agnes Nkosi in a jubilant mood.
“Today’s game was challenging because we faced a formidable opponent who was determined not to lose on their home ground. It demonstrated that every team we play against is looking to beat us. However, as coaches, we are well-versed in our strategies and know how to motivate our players to deliver results, regardless of the opponent. We are thrilled with the outcome of the game, and credit must be given to our players for their resilient performance,” Coach Agnes stated.
Daweti, who was one of six players to return to the first team after international commitments with Banyana Banyana, was pleased with the quality of the opposition.
“I am thrilled to have made a triumphant return to the team. The First Touch Ladies were formidable opponents, demonstrating their bravery by attacking us relentlessly instead of relying solely on their defense. Our team had to make several tactical adjustments to adapt to their tempo, which made the game challenging for us. However, we ultimately showcased our dominance on the field, particularly toward the end of the game. This fixture demonstrated our ability to overcome a strong and determined opponent, and we will undoubtedly use this experience to build upon our strengths and continue to improve as a team,” Lelona stated.
Chuene Morifi believes these kinds of games will regularly occur this season, “It’s fair to say that there are no longer any easy fixtures in the Hollywoodbets Super League. Teams have significantly improved their squads, which means we will need to be more vigilant and creative in our approach to each game. However, this high level of competition is very beneficial for us because it allows us to push ourselves to the limit and improve our mentality even further.”
The victory maintained Sundowns Ladies’ perfect start to the season, with three consecutive wins. Up next for Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies FC is a clash against newly promoted Copper Belts FC.
The ladies should brace themselves for a very tough season ahead, every team is gunning for us which means we need to up our game to another level otherwise we will be surprised. We should forget about the previous seasons and look forward to an intriguing season. The fact that some teams have beefed up and improved is an indication that things points will not come on a platter. I still insist that we need a very young, pacey prolific striker with physical attributes and height who can bully defenders. Andisiwe has not been herself after her lengthy injury and also age is catching up, so we need a contingency. You saw the type of strikers we came across in CAF last year, very bully,strong and physically intimidating and we need such to have to instill fear in teams. Otherwise ladies all the best for the season ahead which promises to be a very challenging one