14 Apr 2024

First Division South outfit, UB Hawks has made it to the quarter finals of the Orange FA Cup following a 9-8 penalty shootout against Premier League side, VTM.

The two teams failed to find the back of the net in the allocated 90 minutes, but both scored in extra time through substitutes, Bogosi Mfila of VTN and Mmoloki Kgaswane of the Vasco Boys, as UB Hawks is affectionately known by its supporters.

In a post-match interview, UB Hawks coach Basimanebotlhe Malete said both teams were equally determined to secure a spot in the last eight of the tournament.

He said despite missing a couple of goal scoring chances in the first half, his team was focused on its approach and directing the opponents.

He said they worked on closing the gaps in midfield, but that VTM was equally determined to win the match.

Despite the opponents taking the lead in extra time, Malete said he remained confident of an equaliser as his team has managed some dramatic comebacks in league encounters.

Malete said a cup game was completely different from a league encounter as teams must focus on finishing the game within 90 minutes.

In another last 16 Orange FA Cup encounter, Police XI narrowly won 1-0 against Nhabe-based second division outfit, City Kings at Kings Arena Park in Gumare.

The Jungle Kings goal came in the 28th minute from a penalty kick that was converted by Ogomoditswe Sitang.

In an interview City Kings coach, Casper Elijah said although his team was ready for the war, his boys showed signs of intimidation and were timid.

Police XI coach, Nelson Olebile expressed happiness that his team won a tough game and proceeded to the last eight.

In a game played at the National Stadium, Mosha Gaolaolwe’s header against Nico United secured Township Rollers a spot in the last eight of the tournament.

Sua Flamingos defeated Pula Roofing 5-4 on penalties. The two teams concluded the match with a one-all draw and the winner was decided by spot kicks.

In another Orange FA Cup last 16 encounter played in Serowe, Jwaneng Galaxy defeated Tsabotlhe 3-1.

Tafic also advanced to the quarter finals after defeating Mbalakalungu 3-2 in a penalty shootout.

The two teams were tied 0-0 during regulation time. ENDS