JBM FC edged out Pele Pele FC 3-2 in a fiercely contested match at a rain-soaked Alexandra Stadium on April 16.
The victory extended JBM’s winning streak following an impressive win against Mike-1-Stars FC on April 12.
Read more: Alexandra soccer fixture called off due to waterlogged pitch
JBM coach Jackie ‘Styles’ Ledwaba was in good spirits after their decisive victory against a strong opponent. He credited his team’s recent turnaround to a renewed mentality.
“We were facing challenges, and I spoke before about conceding silly goals. After the match with Wits, we had a serious talk with the boys and we rectified our mistakes,” he noted, adding that they had won the last three games.
The clash saw JBM take control early after their midfielder Evidence Mashubuka scored the opening goal, capitalising on a defensive lapse to slot past Pele Pele keeper Sphamandla Gumede. The home side carried their 1-0 lead into halftime, but the fierce contention came in the second half.
JBM doubled their advantage early in the second half when Lesedi Matabane unleashed a shot from distance, seemingly putting the game out of reach. But Pele Pele stayed in the game looking to equalise. Their talisman, Sifiso Lethuli, gave them hope with a clinical finish, cutting the deficit to 2-1.
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But just as momentum began to swing in Pele Pele’s favour, JBM’s Raphile Mawela scored, restoring their two-goal lead. It was short-lived, as Pele Pele responded with Luthuli again, jumping high to power in a header from a corner, setting up a tense finale.
Pele Pele coach Ofentse Mohomotsi was livid after the game. He claimed the referee began to favour the home team midway through the game, citing a potential penalty he said the referee missed, and further stressing that Mashubuka’s goal should have been ruled offside. “The game started fairly, but the officiating became inconsistent, which ruined the game for us. However, we stayed in the game.”
Ledwaba praised his players and the loyal Alexandra supporters. “I want to thank the people of Alex. Whenever we play, they are here, this is great, they are loyal.”
With three games remaining, Ledwaba emphasised that the work goes on. “This is not the end. We must keep this winning mentality.”
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