Matanda Golden Arrows were the first to score, but finally lost 1-3 to Tshifhire Northern Brothers in the Nzhelele stream of the Safa Vhembe SAB league at Matanda on Saturday.

The score was not a true reflection of the game, as Brothers were dictating terms in all departments throughout the game. The Maelula side should have taken the lead in the fifth minute, had it not been for the fact that Edgar Molewa shot wide with only the keeper to beat.

Arrows were matching their opponents in every aspect of the match, but their stamina faded as the going became tough. Arrows took the lead in the 24th minute when Tshimangadzo Mavhungu caught the Brothers keeper, Phathutshedzo Muanalo, off guard and blasted in a half volley from inside the box. Their celebration was cut short when Cerdick Booi dished a well-cooked pass to the speedy Tshepo Thovhakale, who scored easily two minutes later.

The Brothers took command of the game, in search of more goals. The pressure increased as the defenders continuously made mistakes. The guys who were giving the opponents' defence a terrible headache were Evans Mosipi and Tshepo Ramaremela.

The second goal for Brothers came in the 36th minute via Edgar Molewa. The half-time score was 2-1 in favour of Brothers.

Arrows made two replacements early in the last half. Martin Phaswana and Phenyiso Phupheli came on for Mpho Galedzane and Thovhedzo Mugada respectively.

Awelani Mbulaheni scored his team's third goal from 20 meters away. He beat the offside trap and ran a few steps forward, before unleashing a powerful shot that saw the opponents’ keeper going the opposite direction.