The sponsors of Tshakhuma RO United FC, who were part of the hundreds of spectators, watched in disbelief as their team suffered its first defeat in 16 league matches when they lost 0-1 to Rockers in their SAB League match at the Tshakhuma Malaria grounds on Sunday.

It was clear from the onset that the two teams are close contenders for the league title as they both played aggressive football. The players nearly spoiled the game by demonstrating their rough skills. The referee, Mr Nndavheleseni Netshivhera, refused to see the situation getting out of hand. He flashed three yellow cards in quick succesion.

The captain of RO United, Asivhanzhi Muthubi, was the first player to go into the referee’s book. He retaliated after Dakalo Tshisikule of Rockers tackled him from behind. Tshisikule did not go unpunished as he was also booked.

The keeper of Rockers, Rendani Sikhitha, denied United a sure goal towards the end of the first half. He palmed the ball away for a corner kick after Khathuthelo Mukomafhedzi unleashed from within the box.

The goal which earned Rocker the three significant points came in the 67th minute. A defender of United, Rolivhuwa Raphalalani, handled the ball within his own danger area. The referee wasted no time before pointing at the penalty spot. Huliani Thanyani beat the keeper with a volley to give his side the lead.

As a sign of frustration, the technical staff of United replaced their keeper, Thabelo Nefuri, with Lufuno Nengwani. Ofhani Mudau of Rockers was given his marching orders, following an off-the-ball tackle on Ipfi Muthubi. For reasons only known by the culprits, Mukondeleli Tshivhula of Rockers and Lufuno Nefuri of United started to exchange blows soon afterwards. That was a good reason for the referee to show them red.