Stars edge closer to title

WINDHOEK, 15 APR  – African Stars Football Club moved closer to winning the 2017/18 Namibia Premier League (NPL) title by beating Tura Magic 1-0 in a tightly contested match played at the Sam Nujoma Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The win sees Stars needing just three points from a possible nine to clinch the title.
Stars created several goal scoring chances, but failed to beat impressive Mervin Kasetura who made great saves to deny Stars.
He, however, could not do anything to stop Panduleni Nekundi from converting from the spot after Magic’s captain Charles Hambira had handled in the box in the 90th minute.
Defeat was also painful for Magic who had matched their opponents in all aspects of the game for the better part of the match.
Magic coach James Britz said the defeat was bitter, as they had lost the match at the “death”.
“We had the game from the start and created so many chances, especially in the first half. We managed to restrict them to shooting from the distance, and I believe the better team lost,” he said.
Stars coach Bobby Samaria paid tribute to Magic, saying they had given them a tough time with their pressing and short passing game.
“We had to change tactics in the second half, and the introduction of Elvis Tjivasera, Marius Kotze and Edwin Korukuve swung the favour to our side and gave us options, especially in attack. We are now three points away from winning the title, so this is a sweet victory,” exclaimed Samaria.
NPL action continues on Sunday, with Stars looking to wrap up the title contest in front of their fans against their city rivals, Tigers.

The rest of Saturday’s results:
Citizens 2 vs Life Fighters 1
Mighty Gunners 1 vs Young Chiefs 0
Blue Waters 2 vs Black Africa 3
Eleven Arrows 1 vs Young African 0
Rundu Chiefs 2 vs Chief Santos 2
UNAM 1 vs Orlando Pirates 2
Tigers 0 vs Civics 2

NAMPA