After losing 0-3 to Lephalale Young Killers at the Mogol Stadium in Lephalale two weeks ago, Nobela All Stars dropped more points when they played to a 1-1 draw with Dinare FC in their Vodacom Promotional League match at the Malamulele Stadium last Saturday.

As if they were going to bury their opponents alive, All Stars approached the game like a house on fire. Realising that the home side was all over them, Dinare reduced the pace of the game by holding onto the ball. The strategy worked for them as Stars lost their original fighting spirit with time.

The Stars were the first to blow the trumpet. It was their right winger, Chris Manganye, who made it happen. He made no mistake after a brilliant pass by Sydwell Ritsuri in the 18th minute. Ritsuri was warned with a card, following a dangerous tackle on Sam Mthombeni three minutes later.

Ritsuri was out of touch after the incident and that forced the team’s technical team to replace him with Vongani Shirinda. Stars came close to scoring again in the 34th minute. Thembisani Nevhulamba miskicked the ball inside the penalty area. This, after he received a beautiful pass from Davney Honwani.

The referee, Mr Thabelo Thienda, flashed another yellow card in the 39th minute. John Monoko of Dinare obstructed Vusimusi Phiri and Tshienda quickly produced yellow to avoid a recurrence.

Dinare did not stop fighting, although time was running out. Their patience paid dividends in the 78th minute. They were awarded a penalty after Thomas Mayekiso was brought down within the box. David Maseko converted from the white spot and managed to hold on to the bitter end.