19 Feb 2023

Gaborone United and Security Systems settled for a 2-2 draw in a scintillating Botswana Premier League encounter at the National Stadium on Saturday.

Systems had an opportunity to take the lead in the 13th minute with a well-taken free-kick only to be denied by GU’s goal minder, Goitseone Phoko.

GU flew out of the traps, racing into a 24th minute lead through Gape Thibedi’s long range shot outside the 18-yard box.

Thibedi lived up to his super substitute theatrics as he had only been on the field for two minutes after coming in for the injured Mpho Kgaswane

The lead was, however, short lived with veteran Kenanao ‘Follow’ Kgetholetsile equalising within a minute of GU’s goal.

The Reds, as GU are fondly called, found themselves on the back foot and went to the halftime break trailing through Thato Ogopotse’s 45th-minute strike that gave System a 2-1 lead.

With a goal down, GU regrouped in the second half and dominated possession, calling System’s goalkeeper Mwampole Masule to task in the 58th minute having to dive low and deny Thero Sitsile from a close range.

Their waves of attack nonetheless paid off with Thathayaone Kgamanyane equalising in the 64th minute and ensuring that the spoils were shared at the final whistle.

In a post-match interview, System’s assistant coach, David Botlhasitse expressed disappointment with the result indicating that they gave the game away by allowing GU to draw level.

“Clearly it was a winnable game and GU were out there for the taking, we gave away silly mistakes that allowed GU back in the game hence it feels like two points dropped,” he said.

Botlhasitse applauded Kgetholetsile’s longevity in his career, adding that he still had a lot to offer despite his age.

For his part, GU’s assistant coach, Pontsho Moloi, credited his side for the ability to fight back and salvage a point.

“We are happy with the point, coming back from a goal down against a very good team was not a child’s play. I am nonetheless happy with the way my team responded especially in the second half of the game,” Moloi said.

In other league games played on Saturday, Extension Gunners woes continued as they suffered a 1-3 defeat to Sua Flamingoes.

Eleven Angels won the clash of the league rookies with a 3-1 victory against Mogoditshane Fighters while Orapa United played to a one-all draw with BDF XI.

Police XI moved to the top half of the log standing following a 2-0 victory against Nico United. Ends