29 Jan 2024

 Extension Gunners have seen their promotion hopes suffer another blow after registering a 1-1 draw against Desert Nxau at the Lobatse Council Stadium on January 27. 

Gunners produced a disjointed play in front of their supporters as they dropped points for the second match in a row.

Uniao Flamengo Santos beat them 1-0 in their previous match before the festive break.

The inconsistent form has seen them sliding to sixth place in the Debswana First Division South League after garnering 15 points from 11 matches. They are now a massive 10 points behind log leaders Jwaneng Young Stars.

Gunners struggled to get a foothold against relegation threatened Desert Nxau. The Tsabong based team, back in the second tier after more than two decades, was actually the more threatening side in the first half.

They created the first clear chance of the match in the 22nd minute, but Wakgotla Mothibi saw his shot sail over the posts.

Gunners’ goalkeeper, Koolopile Tshimologo fisted away a dangerous free-kick a few minutes later as the visitors continued their attacking momentum, with former Notwane and Nico United star, Nelson Moreetsi controlling their midfield.

Gunners wrestled back control towards the end of the first half and midfielder Kabo Matshula forced a good save from Desert’s goalkeeper Tshokolo Thetele with a well taken free-kick.

With half time approaching, new signing from Mogoditshane Fighters, Thuso Keraetswe had a great opportunity to open the scoring but his tame shot was saved by Thetele.

Gunners controlled play better in the second half and were unlucky not to score in the 52nd minute with captain, Ofentse Nato being denied by the crossbar from close range.

They finally opened the scoring in the 67th minute when lanky defender Benson Mosokobanji headed from a free kick.

However, Desert equalised eight minutes later through a brilliant free-kick. Brian Mankanku had a glorious opportunity to win the match for Gunners in the 80th minute after finding himself clear on goal, but he lobbed the ball over the posts.

A point gained from the draw by Desert Nxau leaves them in position 11 after collecting 10 points from 11 matches. ENDS