Tshakhuma Peace Lovers deposited three points into their league account, following their 1-0 victory over Shayandima Power Stars in their MMK Administrators League match at the Tshakhuma Tshisimani grounds on Sunday.

The first 20 minutes of the game were characterized by rough tackles by the Stars defenders. The referee, Mr Rabelani Nemushungwa, refused to see any of the culprits go unpunished. He flashed the first yellow card in the 10th minute. Phindulo Tshihume tackled Fhatuwani Nemusumani from behind just outside the penalty box and Nemushungwa was quick to reprimand him with a card.

Peace Lovers squandered two obvious scoring chances in the 14th and 18th minute respectively. Fhatuwani Nemusumani dribbled past two defenders in a row and hesitated for far too long to unleash with the keeper already beaten, until he lost possession. As if that was not good enough to anger the supporters, Titus Mainganya committed a similar blunder four minutes later.

The boys were separated from men in the 37th minute. Titus Mainganya was brought down within the box after forcing his way through the defence of Power Stars. The referee awarded a penalty to Peace Lovers. Fhatuwani Nemusumani made no mistake from the white spot.

Power Stars came close to scoring in the 54th minute. Fhulufhelo Sithodolo tried his luck from outside the box with a volley. They ball hit the crossbar and bounced outside the field of play for a goal kick. Simon Makhado of Power Stars was warned with a card for ignoring the referee’s whistle.

Both sides effected some changes during the last half, but that did not change the complexion of the game.