George Herald

Blazing Burning Fire melts All Stars

- Zama Gagu

The Zone 9 giants All Stars FC failed to withstand the heat when they went down 2-0 against an in-form Burning Fire on Saturday afternoon, 13 April at the Lawaaikamp Stadium. Zizipho Mtyukwini and Elethu Gungxana scored the two goals for Burning Fire FC. With 31 points, Burning Fire is currently third on the Geolfa log table with their aim of finishing at the top.

They have played 14 league games with ten victories, one draw and three defeats. All Stars are occupying sixth place on the log table with 23 points. The Burning Fire goalkeeper, Makhumandi­le Keyise, went home with a clean sheet after his side gave a solid performanc­e in their game against All Stars.

Tough first half

The Geolfa League encounter started with Burning Fire's Akhona Luke controllin­g the game from the centre of the field.

All Stars players were up against strong attacks from Burning Fire wingers and its defenders absorbed the pressure, trying to get the ball on the ground and building their passes from the back line. Chulumanco Mdaka of Burning Fire tried his luck just outside the box, but his strike went over the bar.

Thapelo Mbebe of Burning Fire failed to score from a clear-cut chance when his shot went over the bar. All Stars goalkeeper Zola Choli made a brilliant save, denying Burning Fire their first goal when he blocked a powerful strike from Siyabonga Bokodayo of Burning Fire.

Though both teams played well, no goals were scored in the first half and it ended 0-0.

Second-half action

The second half kicked off with Burning Fire playing an attacking game. Zizipho Mtyukwini of Burning Fire netted the opening goal with a great header from a corner kick, putting his side in the lead.

The Zone 9 team, All Stars, had to work harder to get their equalising goal. Burning Fire responded with positive touches, moving forward employing speed on the flanks.

Elethu Gungxana of Burning Fire scored their second goal, extending their lead to

2-0 with a marvellous cross played in from the right side of the field. The All Stars back line played a dangerous foul inside the box, allowing a penalty for Burning Fire FC, but Siyabonga Bokodayo's shot was saved by

All Stars goalkeeper Zola Choli.

The Zone 9 team came back into the game in full force looking for their first goal, but they could not break through the solid Burning Fire back line and the Geolfa League game ended 2-0; Burning Fire going home with the bragging rights.

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