Stars still in control

AFRICAN Stars sent their thousands of supporters into raptures as they managed to dispatch a gutsy Eleven Arrows side 2-0, keeping intact their 11-match unbeaten run in the MTC Namibia Premier League, on Saturday.

Stars are now seven points clear off second-placed SKW, while Arrows remain stuck in third spot with eight points adrift.
Stars, enjoying the support of their thousands of fans who thronged the Independence Stadium in a wave of red, made sure they capitalised on any mistakes by the visitors and duly did so already in the third minute.
A beautifully flouted free-kick by Stars midfield maestro, Rudi Louw, found the head of his captain Andrew Tjahikika who effectively used his height to rise above the defenders to clinically put it past Arrows goalie Virgil Vries. Stars led 1-0 at halftime.
The second goal came via the boot Harold Kazerua, who sliced in a perfect grass-cutter to put the score beyond Arrows deep in second half, to seal a famous victory against one of their strongest opponents thus far.
VRIES SENT OFF
Arrows had to do without their star goalkeeper Vries for most of the match, after he was dubiously sent off by referee Alex Tieho for handling the ball outside his box in the first half.
The Arrows bench was not impressed with the decision at all, but their level of professionalism clearly showed, as they did not make a fuss about it.
Vries shed a few tears in the tunnel as he had to go for an early shower in a match that was played in drizzling conditions.
Second-choice goalkeeper Vonk Tjihenuna came on, but their midfielder Donovan Swartz had to make way instead.
The match produced several exciting moments and first on was Rudolf Bester who blasted over the bar right in front of goal in what could have been a possible equaliser in the first stanza.
The misfiring Stars striker Brouwers Litombo also had a chance to stretch the score, but his header went inches wide.
Arrows striker Muna Katupose, who was later replaced with another front man in Edward Damaseb, was denied a chance to score when the quick reflexes by Stars goalie Max Mbaeva did the trick as he tipped the ball over the bar.
Stars workhorse Jamu Ngatjizeko posted a long-range shot just metres from the goal, while Louw and Litombo also came close as they were denied by Tjihenuna.
Damaseb also had a chance midway through the second half and his lack of composure in front of goal sent his shot over the crossbar after a well-presented cross by Bester
Edison Muheua had an effective day on the right flank for Stars and his counter-attacks brought mayhem in the Arrows defence, with one resulting in their second goal.
The match was the only one for the weekend and the domestic league will now take a break for a week.
corry@namibian.com.na