WINDHOEK – Citizens Football Club beat Tura Magic 3-1 in a MTC Namibia Premier League match at Windhoek’s Sam Nujoma Stadium on Thursday.
Magic started off well by playing their exciting brand of football and were duly rewarded when they took the lead in the 22nd minute through David Omseb after Theophilus Junius dribbled past Gustav Theophilus with ease to set him up.
The goal seemed to wake up Citizens who, until that time, were failing to string together more than three passes.
Citizens’ wingers started giving Magic’s defence problems with their speed and in the 23rd minute, Steward Goagoseb picked up a loose ball on the edge of the 18 yard box after Magic failed to clear their lines.
He put in an inch perfect pass which was turned into the net by Christof Tjombundi, which left Magic goalkeeper Mervin Kasetura stranded.
Seven minutes before the half-time interval, Goagoseb was at it again, this time with his pass finding Esegiel Garoeb, who beat Baloyi Tsandib for speed before unleashing a powerful shot which went through the hands of Kasetura in goal for Magic to make it 2-1 in favour of Citizens at half-time.
The second half saw both teams emerge from the tunnel to some drizzling rainfall and wind, which made it difficult for both teams to play good football.
Both sets of players started missing their tackles, and ball control became an issue.
Citizens won a free kick which was floated in by veteran midfielder Letu Shatimuene for Upengisa Ujaha to score and make it 3-1 until the match ended.
Magic coach Mohammed Gargo said his team failed to play their normal game.
“I think my boys get stage fright during games. We plan well before the games but on match day, they just get stage fright. The positive thing for us is that we are losing matches as it gives us things to look for and work on and correct,” Gargo said.
George Ochurub, Citizens’ coach, said their 6-1 defeat last season motivated them for the match.
“We studied how they beat us last season. They used their pacey strikers the last time out and we also noticed that their defence is not that fast so we capitalised on that,” he added.
The NPL continues on Friday with Young African hosting Julinho at Legare Stadium in Gobabis at 20h00.
On Saturday, Blue Waters play Tigers at Vineta Stadium in Swakopmund, while a double header at Mokati Stadium will see Life Fighters hosting Young Brazilians and Mighty Gunners play Orlando Pirates.
Unam will host Eleven Arrows at Sam Nujoma Stadium, with Civics playing Black Africa at the same venue.
On Sunday, African Stars play Okahandja United at Sam Nujoma Stadium. – Nampa
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