Boitumelo Rabale scores late goal for the second time this season

Boitumelo Rabale scored a late goal for the second time this season, giving Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies maximum points in the Hollywoodbets Super League. The reigning Player of the Season was on hand to score the winning goal as Banyana Ba Style clinched a hard-fought 2-1 victory over First Touch Academy in Limpopo.

Coach Jerry ‘Kappa’ Tshabalala fielded a strong team, with Andile Dlamini starting in goal and Bambanani Mbane, Lerato Kgasago, Karabo Makhurubetshi, and Thato Letsoso anchoring the defense.

Oratile Mokwena, Boitumelo Rabale, and Chuene Morifi started in midfield, while Lehlogonolo Mashigo, Andisiwe Mgcoyi, and Lelona Daweti played upfront.

Coach Jerry’s troops dominated the opening period and were duly rewarded with a fine strike from Daweti, her second season goal. Despite continued pressure from Sundowns Ladies, they could not double their advantage before the break.

After the restart, Kappa changed his line-up, bringing Thalea Smidt and Melinda Kgadiete to replace Lerato Kgasago and Andisiwe Mgcoyi.

However, the visitors managed to level the score with just five minutes left on the clock.

With time running out, Rabale delivered the killer blow with a fine finish, handing the reigning champions all three points, leaving Coach Agnes Nkosi in a jubilant mood.

“Today’s game was challenging because we faced a formidable opponent determined not to lose on their home ground. It demonstrated that every team we play against is looking to beat us.

However, as coaches, we are well-versed in our strategies and know how to motivate our players to deliver results, regardless of the opponent.

We are thrilled with the game’s outcome, and our players must be given credit for their resilient performance,” Coach Agnes stated.

Daweti, who was one of six players to return to the first team after international commitments with Banyana Banyana, was pleased with the quality of the opposition.

“I am thrilled to have made a triumphant return to the team. The First Touch Ladies were formidable opponents, demonstrating their bravery by attacking us relentlessly instead of relying solely on their defense. Our team had to make several tactical adjustments to adapt to their tempo, making the game challenging.

However, we ultimately showcased our dominance on the field, particularly toward the end of the game.

This fixture demonstrated our ability to overcome a strong and determined opponent, and we will undoubtedly use this experience to build upon our strengths and continue to improve as a team,” Lelona stated.

Chuene Morifi believes these kinds of games will regularly occur this season, “It’s fair to say that there are no longer any easy fixtures in the Hollywoodbets Super League.

Teams have significantly improved their squads, so we must be more vigilant and creative in our approach to each game.

However, this high level of competition benefits us because it allows us to push ourselves to the limit and improve our mentality even further.”

The victory maintained Sundowns Ladies’ perfect start to the season, with three consecutive wins.

Next for Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies FC is a clash against newly promoted Copper Belts FC.