BY: SHEEFENI NIKODEMUS
AFRICAN Stars successfully retained their MTC Namibia Premier League NPL title thanks to Black Africa’s annihilation of title aspirants Orlando Pirates on the last day of league action for the season.
Black Africa thrashed their cross town foes Pirates 5-1 at the Sam Nujoma Stadium and that ensured the league title remained with African Stars who nervously clung on for a one-all draw against the relegated but spirited Hotspurs side.
Over 3000 vociferous and fanatical ‘Stalile’ faithful turned up to witness their team’s second successive league crowning at the Hage Geingob Stadium. Despite the boisterous fan support, proceedings on the pitch were not going according to plan. Stars struggled to break down the combative Hotspurs team, who must be commended for putting up a contest in the game that in truth had nothing in for them.
A combination of jingling nerves, a poor playing surface and missed chances contributed to lackluster display from the usually dominant Stars outfit who scored the first goal rather fortuitously as Hotspurs goalkeeper Tommy Shilumbu haplessly flapped at a miscued Brouwers Litombo cross from the right and the ball nestled in the back of his net after 14 minutes.
The league champions failed to build on their lead and allowed Hotspurs back in the match. But it was not until the last ten minutes that the relegated Soweto outfit seized the opportunity afforded to them as Ronny Kawendji levelled from close range after reckless defending from Stars Edy Mangoumou. Hotspurs could have added a second but Neville Nanub could only direct a tame effort straight at Max Mbaeva in goal for Stars.
With news of events elsewhere filtering into the stands and only minutes remaining, the Stars supporters began celebrating the successful defence of their league horn.
This is the record sixth occasion that Stars’ pintsized midfield ace, Rudi Louw, has won the NPL’s top title. On top of last seasons league triumph with Stars, Louw had already chalked up three consecutive winners medals with Civics, and one with Pirates.
“I don’t have words,” he said while gasping for air.
“For me it is a great honour and I want to thank my teammates of all the teams that I have won the league with.
“I also want to thank my mother and father for the support they have given me throughout my career.
The skillful player revealed that he is eyeing a move abroad, possibly South Africa, next season as a number of appealing offers have come his way .
“I am planning to play abroad next season. There are some offers from abroad. Some teams from South africa and other countries have shown interest.
“I think Stars will do well without me,” Louw said. Link
