26 Jan 2022

Gaborone United (GU) threw away the lead for the second time in three league matches after being frustrated by a disciplined Police XI team on Tuesday evening.

The two teams drew 1-1 in a hard fought encounter at Lobatse Sports Complex with Pako Gaofose’s second half strike cancelling Thero Setsile’s first half opener.

GU also threw away a two-goal lead recently to draw with Morupule Wanderers.

GU enjoyed plenty of possession and managed to open the Police XI rearguard on numerous occasions in the first half.

Their first chance came as early as the fifth minute when a well worked move by Alford Velaphi, and Setsile resulted in Obonwe Maome releasing Thatayaone Ramatlapeng. However, the midfielder shot tamely at goalkeeper Lesego Bosekeng.

Even though the Jungle Kings’ defence tried their best to limit the Reds marauding attackers, GU continued to find openings and Setsile broke the deadlock in the 21st minute.

The forward tucked a square ball from Ramatlapeng into the net. Setsile, who is enjoying a rich vein of form in GU colours since his recent move from Orapa United, has now scored five goals for the Reds.

Veteran striker, Kekaetswe Moloi, who endured a subdued performance before being replaced in the second half, fluffed two easy chances to extend the GU lead.

Police XI came out of their shell in the second half and started testing the GU defence through Hendrick Moyo, Tapiwa Gadibolae, Eliphas Nyambi and Pako Gaofose.

Gaofose, who joined the Jungle Kings recently from Morupule Wanderers pounced on sloppy defending and levelled matters in the 57th minute.

After the equaliser, the Jungle King’ pushed for a winner as GU became nervous and disjointed.

However, GU regained their composure after bringing on Tshepo Malgas, Mpho Kgaswane and Karabo Phiri. They pumped in crosses through wingbacks Mothusi Johnson and Velaphi.

However, good goalkeeping from Bosekeng and resolute defending by the likes of Tonderai Nyakuba, Letsweletse Leririma Chicco Molefe and Otsile Batang kept the score level.

GU opened an eight point lead at the top of the Premier League standings after the draw. They have collected 38 points from 15 matches.  However, they have played one game more than Township Rollers who are in second place.

Police XI on one hand dropped to position seven with 25 points from 15 matches. ENDS