Jacobs turns on the magic

BRAVE Warriors midfield supremo Quinton Jacobs buried his pending misconduct charges with a gleaming display against cross-town rivals Tigers in a league match on Wednesday.

Despite a goalless outcome in a fast-paced match, Jacobs made an impressive debut for Stars as he controlled the midfield with ease, connecting beautifully on numerous occasions with Rudi Louw and Jamu Ngatjizeko.Their biggest downfall for Stars was a lack of real target-man who was needed to bury those sweet crosses that came from Edison Muheua and the infield passes from Jacobs and Louw.Jacobs also managed to bring down the game to his own pace, characteristics of an experience midfielder who is undoubtedly the best ball passer and controller in the country at the moment.Jacobs is embroiled in a controversial saga which linked him to both Stars and Eleven Arrows at the end of the season and was charged for misconduct and bringing the game of football into disrepute.He was however cleared to play for Stars who signed him up first with the league authorities and if found guilty, he will be suspended for a few matches. But that was all forgotten as Jacobs turned on the style in front of at least 4 000 fans of both sides who flocked to the Sam Nujoma Stadium to watch the derby between two of Namibia’s oldest foes.The match produced drama on end and also saw Tigers captain and main striker Tangeni Shipahu receiving his marching orders in the second half, while Louw was also sent off minutes after that. Both players retaliated after being fouled and with the tempers and frustration of not getting the goals, they both let off a bit of steam in little cat-like scuffles.The match was electric in many respects, with especially the tricky Stanley Goagoseb on the left wing trying to slash the Stars defence on numerous occasions, while in defence, Willem Mwedihange stood tall for the Donkerhoek side. Shipahu was also a constant danger for the Stars defence before he was sent off, while in goal, Fox Nambundunga once again showed his excellent goalkeeping skills. He managed to make some breathtaking saves which thrilled the crowd and also served as a great inspiration for his players.Stars can thank their captain Andrew Tjahikika and Dennis Ngueza for an uncompromising show in defence, while their host of midfielders led by Jacobs made a good impression overall. It was not a good day at the office for Ninja Karongee, but the late introduction of Ikuaterua Tjozongoro almost had Stars pushing for the winner – but it was too little, too late.Overall, some spectators had little to cheer about as they wanted goals, but the match brought the best out of the players who were evenly matched in one-on-one situations.corry@namibian.com.na