Matsemela proves he is captain fantastic
CUT skipper Bongani Matsemela displayed the quality of a seasoned defender when he made the clearance of the match on his goal line in second half stoppage time against NWU-Mafikeng. Goalkeeper Zolani Ligunya had come off the line, so Matsemela was smart enough to cover for his teammate and stop a shot that was taken by Sandile Mbatha. After making the clearance, Matsemela went down on his knees in relief as the tight game finished goalless and CUT booked themselves a home semi-final.
Who else but Hlalele?
TUT’s star player in Varsity Football, Jacob Hlalele, made himself a nuisance for the UWC defenders when he came on as a substitute in the 67th minute, scoring the equaliser in a match that ended 2-2. Hlalele’s goal, scored 14 minutes after coming on, ensured TUT finished the round robin phase as the only unbeaten team. It was sweet revenge for TUT after losing in the final to UWC last year. UWC now cannot defend their title after being knocked out.
Martin redeems himself
After scoring an own goal against UWC last week, NWU-Mafikeng defender Wendelle Martin bounced back with a fantastic performance and a timely tackle against CUT in the 69th minute. CUT played a long ball forward as they launched a counter attack, but Martin ran as fast as Usain Bolt to stop speedy striker Cameron Chweu in his tracks with a clean tackle. Martin, who was named man of the match, did well not to concede a foul because he was the last man in defence.
Sambo makes penalty save
UJ goalkeeper Mpumelelo Sambo made sure that UFH’s night went from bad to worse when he saved a penalty in the second half. UFH, who were 4-1 down at half time, were awarded a penalty in the second period after Dane Fortuin brought down Andile Batyi in the box. Sambo did not feel sorry for the UFH team at all, getting a strong right hand to the spot kick which was taken by Bathandwa Zondani.
Dor inspires Wits to first victory
It’s been a difficult campaign for Wits this year, but Graeme Dor made sure that they will at least finish with a win in the competition. After scoring a brace in the first period to make it 2-2 at half time against Gauteng rivals Tuks, Dor completed his hat trick in the 53rd minute. Wits held on doggedly for their maiden victory in the competition this year.
By Tshepang Mailwane, Sowetan and Sunday World football writer
The post Iyachesa Big Five: Final Round appeared first on Varsity Sports SA.