Newly christened Ongos FC assistant coach Efraim Tjihonge, has expressed frustration with his players’ lacklustre performance in front of goal during their 2-1 victory over Julinho Sporting in the Debmarine Premiership on Saturday.

“We should have scored more goals today, but poor execution by our forwards let us down. We created numerous chances in the second half, where we could easily have scored three goals, but we failed to convert those opportunities,” Tjihonge lamented.

FC Ongos came from behind to secure the win against the Rundu-based outfit, with Elago Simon and Kleopas Useb finding the net. Mapenzi Muwanei opened the scoring for the visitors, but the host team equalised and then scored a decisive second goal in the second half.

Despite clinching all three points, Tjihonge, who was standing in for Paulus Shipanga, currently on assignment with the national women’s soccer team, was unhappy with his team’s inability to capitalise on their chances. He acknowledged the toughness of the match but emphasised the need to work on their finishing skills.

“I am pleased with the victory and collecting maximum points. However, we need to go back to the drawing board and address our shortcomings. I would also like to commend our opponents; they were a formidable team and gave us a tough challenge,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Paulus Likumbi of Julinho Sporting acknowledged that it was an unfortunate result for his team but pledged to focus on the positives from the game and move forward.

“Defeat is part of football, and we were unlucky today. However, we will take the few positives and regroup, focusing on our next game. We have more matches ahead of us,” he remarked.

In other Saturday matches, coastal team Blue Waters played a 1-1 draw against Orlando Pirates, while Young African and Okakarara shared the spoils with a 2-2 scoreline in Gobabis. 

Newly promoted side Eshoke Chula Chula continued their impressive form with a convincing 2-0 win over Civics. 

Defending champions African Stars routed Okahandja United 4-0, and Young Brazilian secured their first win of the season, beating Life Fighters 1-0 in Keetmanshoop.

Finally, Mighty Gunners collected maximum points on Saturday by defeating Tigers 2-0 in Otjiwarongo. - mkambukwe@nepc.com.na