18 February 2020 – In what proved to be a mixed bag of results, the past weekend’s ABC Motsepe League in the popular Free State edition, lived up to its tag as one of the more unpredictable provinces.
All 16 teams were in action with eight fixtures all taking place on Saturday, 15 February. All kick-offs were scheduled for 15h00 except for the lone midday game (12h30) between Mphatlalatsane United FC and Lijabatho FC at Bluegumbusch Stadium. The home team ran out easy 4-1 victors keeping a hapless Lijabatho winless and in last spot with a worrying goal difference of -44.
Uniqwa Sports centre then played host to one of the matches of the weekend as log leaders and favorites for the title, Mangaung Unite, were edged 1-0 by 15th placed African Warriors FC despite dominating proceedings. Unite are still ahead by three points but have played one game more than their nearest rivals.
Questas FC then welcomed Kovsies FC to Clive Solomon Stadium in what proved to be an entertaining goalless draw between two struggling sides. Both teams failed to take their chances but both defenses were up to the task.
Sibanye Golden Stars used their home supporters to their advantage to narrowly see off a plucky Harmony F.C at Vuyo Charles Stadium. Stars climbed into sixth spot while Harmony remain in a precarious 13th.
Dikwena United FC scored an impressive 3-2 away win at Small Tigers FC. The game also took place at Bluegumbusch. It was United’s ninth win of the season to take them up to seventh while Tigers still languish in 11th.
Second placed Super Eagles failed to capitalize on Mangaung’s surprise loss as they too suffered at home to De General FC who put on a spirited display at Bohlokeng Stadium. The away club consolidated their impressive fourth place while eagles still have a chance to catch Mangaung with a game in hand and three points adrift.
BFN Young Tigers were also victims on their own home patch as they went down 1-0 to Central University of FS at Kaizer Sebothelo Stadium in Botshabelo. Tigers still remain in third position though, while their rivals edge into fifth.
The day’s final match produced goals galore as Bloemfontein Celtic FC hammered Caledon United FC 4-1 at Siwelele Park, Bayswater in Bloemfontein. Both teams remain comfortably nestled in mid-table.
With so much at stake, things are bound to get even more tense and exciting over the next few weeks in the Free State ABC League.
Click here for all the latest results, fixtures and log standings.