Indlovu ends Opopo winning streak

Opopo FC’s 16-game winning streak in the Hollywood men’s regional league was brought to an end on February 24, when Idlovu FC defeated them 1–0 at Highlands North Boys’ High School.

Indlovu closed the gap to eight points with 40 points, while the log leaders, Opopo, remained on top of the table with 48, having played one extra game than second position Indlovu.

Despite Idlovu scoring as early as 30 minutes into the first half – courtesy of Ndumiso Magubane, Opopo put up a fight, but the Elephants’ coach’ Thato Legodi, believes his players are self-motivated and do not need further encouragement to maintain their high performance.

Legodi said, “It is up to them where they end up in the log. My responsibility as a coach is to make sure they are happy and stay motivated by themselves.”

Magubane was recently signed at the club trials and is the only new player Legodi selected for the senior side. His goal against Opopo was his 10th league goal in seven games.

Legodi said the team’s preparations before the match were fundamental, and they knew what to do before kickoff. They were aware that Opopo would be physical and would test their player’s character.

“The psychological part of the game was dealt with during the week, and we acted how Opopo would treat our players before and during the game. That gave us a great boost as whatever transpired was rehearsed, and we made sure the personnel in the field matched the match requirements,” said the coach.

Indlovu welcomed Nakedi Mpaneng back to the white sticks, who continued with his clean sheet number eight. The team also introduced three new faces to the squad, including Thato Selotola from Limpopo School of Excellence, Moeketsi Sepholla from SuperSport United U19 GDL team, and Asiphesona Loliwe from SuperSport United Gauteng ABC.

Indlovu will play their next league fixture at Rabie Ridge Stadium as they welcome Alex outfits Malandela Mighty Heroes on March 2, while Opopo will visit FC Barcenal at Fiat Ground the next day.

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