Football proved to be a cruel sport at the Makwarela Stadium last Saturday. Rospa United, who dominated the better part of the game, finally went down 0-1 in their Safa Second Division League match.

Although two of their key players, Ndumeliso Mabulele and Mashudu “Tlolo” Mashapha, were not part of the team, Rospa United were by far the better side when it came ball possession. On the other hand, Joe’s Express fought it without their killer-striker, Thembisani Nevhulamba, and their left back, Lucas Mashau. Mashau’s place was taken by Nndateni Netshitadi.

Netshitadi was the first player to go into the referee’s book. He tackled Kenneth “Mabena” Lesia from behind and the referee, Mr Edgar Simba, was quick to produce yellow. Realizing that there was no stability in their midfield, the coach of United, Mr Benjamin Mhlaba, decided to effect an early change to the starting lineup. Deon Chauke came on for Karabo Lanaga.

The coach of Express, Mr Edwin Ramphabana, reacted by introducing Dzivhuluwani Simba for Hymer Munyai in a bid to strengthen their shaky midfield.

The United striker, Kenneth “Mabena” Lesia, realized that it was not his day when he missed a sitter towards the end of the first half. He received a neat pass from Rolivhuwa Mukwevho in the 25-meter area and forced his way through the defence of Express before unleashing a half-volley. The ball hit the side netting for a goal kick.

United continued to press hard in their search for the much-needed goal, but things continued to work against them. Tshifhiwa Mmboi, the United skipper, was booked for a late tackle on Pfariso Mukoma in the 74th minute. The goal which separated the boys from men came in the 86th minute. Pfariso Mukoma scored, following a square pass by Rofhiwa Mabila.

Express played defensive football for the remaining part of the game.