The SAFA Vhembe Stream E play-off match between Makhitha Oscar Stars and Tshikhwani Stone Breakers was played under protest on Saturday at Tshifulanani Stadium. Stars won the fiercely contested match 2-1.

The match started 35 minutes late after Breakers had lodged a protest with the referee, Mr. Oriel Mulovhedzi, alleging that one of Oscar Stars’ players, Funanani Sedina, was not properly registered.

When the match eventually started, Breakers squandered numerous scoring opportunities. They approached the game aggressively, with their strikers, Livhuwani Masindi and Tshifhiwa Ralutanda, frequently invading the opponents’ danger area. This forced the defenders of Stars to abandon their positions to assist their shaky defence.

Breakers began to display rough tactics in a bid to neutralise the opponents after Stars had taken control of the game. The referee issued yellow cards, booking two of the Breakers defenders, Thwalima Ramashidzha and Luvhengo Mauluma, for dangerous tackles in quick succession.

Stars opened the scoring via Andries “Nopeace” Masingi, making the half-time score 1-0.

Early in the second half, Breakers equalised through Khetho Tahula. Their celebrations were cut short when a Breakers defender handled the ball inside the penalty area, and the referee awarded a penalty. Masingi converted, making the score 2-1.

Shortly afterward, Ndugelo Tshingwala of Breakers had a chance to equalise, but his shot was palmed away by the keeper.

The secretary of SAFA Vhembe, Mr. Sam Matodzi, confirmed that the office had received the formal protest from Stone Breakers. He could not confirm when the objection would be dealt with.