Tsakani – An U17 game between the Kopano FC and the Tjovitjo Sports Club at the Ext 5 Ground in Tsakani had spectators cheering on their feet on February 8.

Each team played tactically, weighing options to score goals that could lead to victory.

The Kopano FC’s Tisetso Mofokeng said the game was tough, “We scored our first goal in the first half, just a few minutes into the game and led until the second half.”

Things quickly changed when their opponents equalised.

“They caught up to us when we least expected them to. We relaxed, and our opponents used that to their advantage,” he said.

Mofokeng added that his players made silly mistakes, which contributed to not winning the match.

The Tjovitjo Sports Club’s Obakeng Mapotela said they made costly mistakes in the first half, “Unfortunately, those mistakes continued into the early stages of the second half.

“That affected our momentum and gave the opposition confidence. However, we regrouped and made important tactical changes,” he explained.

“The structure and approach we used later in the game were different, and the players responded very well. Coming back at this division level, especially in the U17 category, is never easy, but the team showed great character.”

He added that one substitute made a huge impact.

“He helped us fight back and gave the team renewed energy. The opposition also made mistakes, and we capitalised on them, which was important for us.”

Mapotela was happy that the team showed determination to get back into the game.