Ocean FC wins big in friendly match
U-13 teams battle it out while waiting for the league to officially open.
Africa Bright Birds suffered a 5-3 defeat on the penalties against Ocean FC at Ivory Park Extension 10 sports ground during a friendly match on March 14.
The two encountered each other on a friendly match while they are waiting for their league to open as they both partake in the Ivory Park Taxi Football Association (IPTA) League.
Until then, they will train and test their fitness in friendly matches or partake in tournaments.
On Saturday, they faced each other on a 1-1 draw which led to penalty shoot-outs to determine the winner. Ocean FC claimed the victory when the opposition made two misses. This is the u-13 division encounter which took place.
Mpho Kekana, head coach, said they played very well till the last minute where they made a mistake and conceived a goal.
“Our midfield showed character but towards the end, they played as individuals, opening spaces for the opposition to capitalise on.”
As a woman coaching a men’s football club Kekana said she loves football and it is easier to form a boys’ club than a girls’ club.
“I get too much respect for being in this position though sometimes you get undermined for being a woman in men’s football,” added Kekana.
Grievance Lekhuane, Ocean FC coach, said they had a tough game as it is always expected when they playing against Africa Bright Birds.
“In the first half, we were completely overplayed and it was till the second half that we managed to come back to the gain with few substitutions made.
“Defence was okay because they managed to absorb the pressure of the first half and our goalkeeper made exceptional saves.
“Thanks to our keeper, he saved our skin even at the penalties because he made two wonderful saves from players I thought they are going to the ball behind the net,” said Lekhuane.
