Israel Saria
Taifa Stars yesterday made a false start in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers race when they drew 1-1 with the Mauritius national side in a match played at the ultra modern National Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
At halftime, the visitors were leading 1-0. However, Taifa Stars had to blame themselves for squandering a number of chances that came their way.
They would have been in the lead in the 35th minute had Emmanuel Gabriel converted a penalty shot awarded to them after Henry Joseph was fouled inside the box. But Gabriel`s feeble shot was easily saved by the goalie.
Earlier, he successfully made it but referee Kenias Marange from Zimbabwe ordered a re-shoot out because he played before he had blown his whistle fully.
Mauritius who displayed a cool game, realised their goal in the 40th minute through Wasley Marquette. He took a ball from Stars defender Salum Swed, passed goalie Ivo Mapunda and escorted it home.
Stars who commanded the game launched onslaught attacks right from the beginning but poor finishing cost them.
Whenever they approached their opponents` goal, they either shot wide or sent shots that were easily saved by Mauritius goalie Amomoto Francis.
In the second half Stars increased pressure that enabled them to equalise in the 69th minute through Danny Mrwanda who connected a cross pass from Salum Swed.
The goal boosted Taifa Stars` morale but could not change the goal margin.
The visitors however had to play with 10 players after Wasley Marquette was red carded after fouling Godfrey Bonny.
- SOURCE: Sunday Observer
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