The fans of Maweja Takers left Tshakhuma with sore hearts on Saturday, after their home team lost 0-1 to Univen FC in their MMK Funeral Services League match.

Takers’ front runner, Mukandangalwo Ramunana, did not live up to the fans’ expectations as he was tightly marked. Realizing that he was well-contained, Ramunana tried to frustrate the opponents with rough plays. He did not get far with his dirty tricks as the referee, Mr Eric Munyai, warned him with a card in the 14th minute.

Univen should have taken the lead in the 24th minute. They were awarded an indirect free kick just outside the penalty box.  Rofhiwa Netshiungani beat the keeper with a half volley from the set piece. The second assistant referee, Mr Mphireni Mphephu, raised his flag as the ball hit the back of the net. After consulting with Mphepu, the referee withdrew his initial decision and disallowed the goal on the basis that the goal scorer was the first player to touch the ball, whereas the set piece was an indirect free kick.

The referee’s decision did not go down well with the players, officials and fans of Univen. They started to shout abusive words towards the match officials.

The goal that earned Univen three significant points came in the 36th minute. Khathutshelo “Adibayo” Mudau connected Lesiba Kwapa’s square pass.

Maweja introduced three new faces in the second half. Rofhiwa Magodi, Sheriff Mudalahothe and Mashudu Mukhari replaced Mukandangalwo Ramunana, Takalani Mashila and Ndwamato Ndou respectively. Maweja threw everything within their reach in their desperate search for the equaliser, but it was not their day.