Makhitha Oscar Stars will no longer participate in the prestigious Gwede Mantashe and Matsila Development Trust Soccer Challenge. They were kicked out 2-0 by United Artist at Makwarela FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The Artists outsmarted Stars from the onset. The students from the local training college were lucky not to concede half a dozen goals during the first half, as they were out of touch in all departments.

Stars missed clear chances in the 15th and 17th minute. Lucky Funyufunyu shot wide from close range after receiving a neat pass from Lufuno Ndou. Two minutes later, Sydney Luvhengo released aimlessly from outside the box, much to the disappointment of the team’s supporters.

Artist finally broke the deadlock in the 38th minute. It was their left flank, Thomas” Razor” Makhubele, who made things happen. His long-range attempt left the Stars keeper flat-footed.

Both sides effected two changes in the last half. The replacements worked against the Artists, as they played the last stanza with their backs against the wall. Vutomi Ngomana and Maanda Mulaudzi missed sitters in the dying minutes. Stars lost cohesion and Artist capitalised on this by pressurizing their opponents.

Shortly before the final whistle, Robert Baloyi was brought down by Stars' defender, Itani Selota, and Mashudu Siobo scored from the white spot.